'Present tense' definitions:

Definition of 'present tense'

noun

A verb tense that expresses actions or states at the time of speaking [syn: present, present tense]

From: GCIDE

Present \Pres"ent\, a. [F. pr['e]sent, L. praesens,-entis, that is before one, in sight or at hand, p. p. of praeesse to be before; prae before + esse to be. See Essence.] [1913 Webster]
1. Being at hand, within reach or call, within certain contemplated limits; -- opposed to absent. [1913 Webster]
These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. --John xiv. 25. [1913 Webster]
2. Now existing, or in process; begun but not ended; now in view, or under consideration; being at this time; not past or future; as, the present session of Congress; the present state of affairs; the present instance. [1913 Webster]
I'll bring thee to the present business --Shak. [1913 Webster]
3. Not delayed; immediate; instant; coincident. "A present recompense." "A present pardon." --Shak. [1913 Webster]
An ambassador . . . desires a present audience. --Massinger. [1913 Webster]
4. Ready; quick in emergency; as a present wit. [R.] [1913 Webster]
5. Favorably attentive; propitious. [Archaic] [1913 Webster]
To find a god so present to my prayer. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
Present tense (Gram.), the tense or form of a verb which expresses action or being in the present time; as, I am writing, I write, or I do write. [1913 Webster]