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)

b

: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated or in vibratory motion: such as

(1)

: oscillation

(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

 

adjective

vibrationless

vī-ˈbrā-shən-ləs 

adjective

Synonyms

• jiggling
• oscillation
• quivering
• shaking
• shivering
• shuddering
• trembling
• twitching

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

Marrying the headset—which includes head-tracking, vibration, and adaptive posture technology—to a compact controller that doubles as a Windows 11 computer creates a more portable and immersive experience for gamers on the go, or with limited space at home. —Ashley Mateo, TIME, 30 Oct. 2024

Some foot spas include vibration, which can act as a mini massage feature. —Daley Quinn Published, Health, 25 Oct. 2024

Photo : Focal The cabinet itself is made from high-density polymer, specially molded to provide exceptional rigidity and freedom from vibration and resonance. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024

Deep revitalization is a top priority, from body vibration and red-light therapies to cryotherapy and stem cell treatment. —Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing vibration

• sympathetic vibration

Kids 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

vibrational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective

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)

b

: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated or in vibratory motion

2

: an instance of vibration

vibrate

ˈvī-ˌbrāt 

verb

vibrated; vibrating

vibrational

-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective