vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən 
1
a
: 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)
(1)
(2)
: a quivering or trembling motion : quiver
2
: an instance of vibration
3
: vacillation in opinion or action : wavering
4
a
: a characteristic emanation, aura, or spirit that infuses or vitalizes someone or something and that can be instinctively sensed or experienced
—often used in plural
b
: a distinctive usually emotional atmosphere capable of being sensed
—usually used in plural
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 on the Web
The sun, wind, noise, boat vibration and motion can intensify the effects of alcohol and drugs which can quickly impair coordination, judgment and reaction time.
—
Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 17 Mar. 2026
The team principal told the press that the new power unit was causing vibrations so fierce that neither of his drivers could physically complete a race, with Alonso able to handle 25 laps behind the wheel of the car and Stroll 15 laps before potentially suffering permanent nerve damage.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 Mar. 2026
The detection devices scientists are using feature ultra-pure silicon and germanium crystals with conducting sensors, which should be able to detect minute vibrations and electrical signals from dark matter particles.
—Adam Harrington, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026
Davis used tuning forks to simulate prey vibrations near roadsides and found the spiders’ overall health was unaffected by urban stressors.
—Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 17 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for vibration
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Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 17 Mar. 2026
The team principal told the press that the new power unit was causing vibrations so fierce that neither of his drivers could physically complete a race, with Alonso able to handle 25 laps behind the wheel of the car and Stroll 15 laps before potentially suffering permanent nerve damage.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 Mar. 2026
The detection devices scientists are using feature ultra-pure silicon and germanium crystals with conducting sensors, which should be able to detect minute vibrations and electrical signals from dark matter particles.
—Adam Harrington, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026
Davis used tuning forks to simulate prey vibrations near roadsides and found the spiders’ overall health was unaffected by urban stressors.
—Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 17 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for vibration
Cite this Entry
“Vibration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vibration. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən
1
a
: a rapid motion of the particles of an elastic body or substance back and forth (as when a stretched cord produces a musical tone or molecules in the air transmit sounds to the ear)
b
: the action of vibrating : the state of being vibrated
2
: a trembling motion
vibration of a house caused by a passing truck
3
: a feeling or impression that someone or something gives off
—usually used in plural
good vibrations
Medical Definition
vibration
noun
vi·bra·tion
vī-ˈbrā-shən
1
a
: 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)
2
: an instance of vibration
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