vibration

noun

vi·​bra·​tion vī-ˈbrā-shən How to pronounce vibration (audio)
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)
b
: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated or in vibratory motion: such as
(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
vī-ˈbrā-sh(ə-)nəl
 How to pronounce vibration (audio)
adjective
vibrationless adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Still, even in light moments like this, there’s also a shade, as another mouse game undermines the vibration technology that Welcome Tour tries to promote. Matt Gardner, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025 The technology of using vibration to counteract bone loss came from NASA, which knew since the Soviet cosmonauts that suspension in a zero gravity environment sucks away bone matter. Jia H. Jung, Mercury News, 4 June 2025 The dark understory of the forest began to glow, a vibration emanating from its depths, rising to the sound of a jet engine. Jordan Thomas may 28, Literary Hub, 28 May 2025 The vibrator features 12 intensity levels and is designed with Pleasure Air Technology that utilizes air vibrations to suck and massage the clitorus, keeping it stimulated without direct contact. Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for vibration

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of vibration was in 1635

Cite this Entry

“Vibration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vibration. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

vibration

noun
vi·​bra·​tion vī-ˈbrā-shən How to pronounce vibration (audio)
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
vibrational
-shnəl How to pronounce vibration (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

vibration

noun
vi·​bra·​tion vī-ˈbrā-shən How to pronounce vibration (audio)
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)
b
: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated or in vibratory motion
2
: an instance of vibration
vibrate verb
vibrated; vibrating
vibrational adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on vibration

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!