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
By monitoring vibration and temperature data from a pump, AI can predict when a bearing is likely to fail, allowing maintenance to be scheduled proactively to avoid a catastrophic breakdown.
—
Ed Garibian, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
The tangibly evolving style creature that is the men’s style zeitgeist is singing out new vibrations, like Sirens calling with fresh beguiling ideas and contexts that pull us astray from our pre-designated style courses.
—Tom Stubbs, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2025
This would cut down on loud bass vibrations that can shake windows in the residences just east of the West 7th District.
—Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Mar. 2025
Anything made from rubber or plastic—like bushings, rubber isolators that reduce noise and vibrations—will need to be replaced.
—Wes Siler, Outside Online, 2 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vibration
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Ed Garibian, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
The tangibly evolving style creature that is the men’s style zeitgeist is singing out new vibrations, like Sirens calling with fresh beguiling ideas and contexts that pull us astray from our pre-designated style courses.
—Tom Stubbs, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2025
This would cut down on loud bass vibrations that can shake windows in the residences just east of the West 7th District.
—Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Mar. 2025
Anything made from rubber or plastic—like bushings, rubber isolators that reduce noise and vibrations—will need to be replaced.
—Wes Siler, Outside Online, 2 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 12 Mar. 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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