I. ˈam-bē-ənt adjective
Etymology: Latin ambient-, ambiens, present participle of ambire to go around, from ambi- + ire to go — more at issue
Date: 1596
: existing or present on all sides : encompassing
II. noun
Date: 1624
1. : an encompassing atmosphere : environment
2. : music intended to serve as an unobtrusive accompaniment to other activities (as in a public place) and characterized especially by quiet and repetitive instrumental melodies