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

Recorded live with no overdubs or edits, the performance is paired with the acoustic ambience of dripping water, echoes and natural resonance as atmospheric lighting spotlights the band. —Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 14 May 2025

Shade Trees Oak trees grow very large and cast heavy shade through the summer, which can interfere with the ambience of your deck. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 May 2025

Guests have praised this boutique property for its impeccable service, romantic ambience, and convenient location near the area's top hikes and wineries. —Abby Price, Travel + Leisure, 5 May 2025

There’s a peaceful ambience to the rooms, similar to hotel rooms in the South of Spain. —Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 5 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