ambience

noun

am·​bi·​ence ˈam-bē-ən(t)s 

ˈäm-bē-än(t)s

variants or ambiance

: a feeling or mood associated with a particular place, person, or thing : atmosphere

The restaurant's soft music and candlelight gave it a romantic ambience.

Synonyms of ambience

• aura
• atmosphere
• smell
• aroma
• air

Examples of ambience in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Layers of luminous gold tones flow throughout the space, reminiscent of the warmth and ambience of her storied residence. —Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 30 Jan. 2026

Plus, guests under eight are not allowed on board, which adds to the intimate ambience. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2026

Grouping ceramic houses in the center of a table can be a whimsical alternative to classic candlesticks for ambience. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026

Gans’ handling of ambience, once an obvious strength, has eroded as well. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 23 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

in part from ambi(ent) entry 1 + -ence, in part borrowed from French ambiance (from ambiant "ambient" + -ance -ance)

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ambience

• ambiance

Kids Definition

ambience

noun

am·​bi·​ence

variants or ambiance

ˈam-bē-ən(t)s  ˈäm-bē-än(t)s 

: a feeling or mood that is related to a particular place, person, or thing