1
: of, relating to, or functioning as a vestibule
2
: of, relating to, or affecting the perception of body position and movement
the vestibular system of the inner ear

Examples of vestibular in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The swinging design and compression help with vestibular input and calming. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026 That said, studies suggest that these very low-frequency sound waves may affect the brain, heart, and vestibular system (which controls balance). Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 3 June 2026 The vestibular system, meanwhile, is working hard to maintain balance on a surface that may be precarious. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 4 May 2026 Over the years, Alexa, who goes by @sicksadgirly on TikTok, has undergone extensive treatment, from physical and occupational therapy to vestibular rehab, all while facing major setbacks — including a blood clot in her internal jugular vein caused by a treatment port. Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vestibular

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of vestibular was circa 1839

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vestibular.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vestibular. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

vestibular

adjective
1
: of or relating to the vestibule of the inner ear, the vestibular system, the vestibular nerve, or the vestibular sense
vestibular impulses
2
: lying within or facing the vestibule of the mouth
the vestibular surface of a tooth
vestibularly adverb
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!