vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən 
1
a
: a periodic motion of the particles of an elastic body or medium in alternately opposite directions from the position of equilibrium when that equilibrium has been disturbed (as when a stretched cord produces musical tones or molecules in the air transmit sounds to the ear)
(1)
(2)
: a quivering or trembling motion : quiver
2
: an instance of vibration
3
: vacillation in opinion or action : wavering
4
a
: a characteristic emanation, aura, or spirit that infuses or vitalizes someone or something and that can be instinctively sensed or experienced
—often used in plural
b
: a distinctive usually emotional atmosphere capable of being sensed
—usually used in plural
vibrational
adjective
vī-ˈbrā-sh(ə-)nəl
Examples of vibration in a Sentence
trying to reduce engine vibration
the vibration of the floor caused by thundering feet in the hallway
Recent Examples on the Web
Electronic sounds, sounds moving through water, sounds experienced through vibration—deaf expertise was one form among many in this slippery medium (newly manipulable with cheap digital tools).
—
Mara Mills, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025
The riddims during that two-song run were palpable, as even Sol closed her eyes and swayed side to side, soaking in the positive vibrations that darted her way.
—Carl Lamarre, Billboard, 27 Mar. 2025
But in this pairing, the lower vibration of Neptune also brings addiction, drama, vagueness, lack of direction, ambiguity, and a dissolution of boundaries.
—Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 27 Mar. 2025
In manufacturing, experienced operators can detect potential equipment failures through subtle changes in vibration or sound that novices might overlook.
—Rajesh Rajagopalan, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vibration
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Mara Mills, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025
The riddims during that two-song run were palpable, as even Sol closed her eyes and swayed side to side, soaking in the positive vibrations that darted her way.
—Carl Lamarre, Billboard, 27 Mar. 2025
But in this pairing, the lower vibration of Neptune also brings addiction, drama, vagueness, lack of direction, ambiguity, and a dissolution of boundaries.
—Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 27 Mar. 2025
In manufacturing, experienced operators can detect potential equipment failures through subtle changes in vibration or sound that novices might overlook.
—Rajesh Rajagopalan, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vibration
Cite this Entry
“Vibration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vibration. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən
1
a
: a rapid motion of the particles of an elastic body or substance back and forth (as when a stretched cord produces a musical tone or molecules in the air transmit sounds to the ear)
b
: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated
2
: a trembling motion
vibration of a house caused by a passing truck
3
: a feeling or impression that someone or something gives off
—usually used in plural
good vibrations
Medical Definition
vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən
1
a
: a periodic motion of the particles of an elastic body or medium in alternately opposite directions from the position of equilibrium when that equilibrium has been disturbed (as when particles of air transmit sounds to the ear)
2
: an instance of vibration
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