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

• air
• aroma
• atmosphere
• aura
• climate
• flavor
• halo
• karma
• mood
• nimbus
• note
• odor
• patina
• smell
• temper
• vibration(s)

Examples of ambience in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For a cozy, inviting ambience at night, consider these string lights that are nearly half off right now. —Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2025

Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Outdoor String Lights Outdoor lights are a simple, effortless way to add a welcoming ambience to your front porch or patio, and customers can’t get enough of this set of solar string lights from Brightech. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 21 June 2025

We were disgusted by the ambience of this special occasion in our grandchildren’s lives. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 10 June 2025

For the modern buyer who prioritizes ambience over driving dynamics, perhaps adjusting the Atmospheres from Joy to Energetic or Minimal will allow for more personal expression on the daily commute. —Michael Teo Van Runkle, ArsTechnica, 16 May 2025

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