vīˈbrāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin vibration-, vibratio, from vibratus (past participle of vibrare to shake, vibrate) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at wipe
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 or other body produces musical tones or particles of air transmit sounds to the ear)
b. : the action of vibrating or the state of being vibrated or in vibratory motion: as
(1) : oscillation
(2) : a quivering or trembling motion : quiver
2. : an instance of vibration: as
a. : the complete movement described by a particle of an elastic body or medium until the periodic motion begins to repeat itself
b. : one half of the periodic motion of a particle
c. obsolete : a hypothetical motion of the nerves serving as a means of transmission of sensory impressions
d. : an occult or supernatural entity that exerts a harmful or beneficial influence and is sensible to a person psychically attuned to it
the evil act has set millions of vibrations going — Margery Allingham
got vibrations that you fellows were close — W.T.Brannon
3. : vacillation in opinion, doctrine, or conduct
4.
a. : a characteristic emanation, aura, or spirit that infuses or vitalizes and that can be intuitively sensed or experienced
what was most stimulating … depended largely on the vibrations of his time and country — Sean O'Faolain
the vibration of human kinship — Jean S. Untermeyer
b. : a psychological response especially to aesthetic or emotional stimuli
could … the memory of his smile awake the familiar vibrations — Ellen Glasgow