Definition of vibration
1a : 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
4a : a characteristic emanation, aura, or spirit that infuses or vitalizes someone or something and that can be instinctively sensed or experienced —often used in pluralb : a distinctive usually emotional atmosphere capable of being sensed —usually used in plural
From the M-W Editors
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 of vibration from the Web
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Vibrating swings, vibrating chairs - is there a parent who hasn't relied on the infant-calming effects of good, good, good vibrations?
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Sportage also got cabin upgrades, including better materials, new seats and trim, and extra insulation to reduce noise and vibration.
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The crossover's stiffer body structure is also better at preventing noise and vibrations, for a quieter and smoother ride.
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As is true for a tin can telephone, a tighter string is better at passing along vibrations.
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Crystal bowls can fill your body with healing vibrations – the bigger the bowl, the louder the vibe.
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The car gets up to speed, and stays at speed, silently and without any vibration, which is part of the delight of driving electric.
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Gone are the classic dips and turns of the rickety old Jet Star, the thundering vibrations of its cars rippling through the boardwalk wood.
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The toy responds to the strength and duration of different vibrations and footfalls.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'vibration'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
1635
First Known Use of vibration
1635
VIBRATION Defined for English Language Learners
vibration
playDefinition of vibration for English Language Learners
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: a continuous slight shaking movement : a series of small, fast movements back and forth or from side to side
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vibrations : a feeling that someone or something gives you
VIBRATION Defined for Kids
vibration
playDefinition of vibration for Students
1 : a rapid motion (as of a stretched cord) back and forth
2 : the action of moving or causing to move back and forth or from side to side very quickly : the state of being swung back and forth
3 : a trembling motion
Medical Dictionary
vibration
playMedical Definition of vibration
1a: 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
Learn More about vibration
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See words that rhyme with vibration Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for vibration Spanish Central: Translation of vibration Nglish: Translation of vibration for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of vibration for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vibration
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