Vibes: meaning, definitions and examples

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vibes

[vaɪbz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

positive energy

Vibes refer to the emotional atmosphere or feeling that a place or person emits. It is often used to describe a positive or good feeling that one gets from a particular environment or interaction.

Synonyms

atmosphere, aura, energy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vibes	Commonly used in informal or conversational settings to describe the overall feeling or emotion in a place or from someone. Often related to a casual, emotional perception. I love the vibes at this café; it feels so cozy and welcoming. She's giving off some strange vibes today.
atmosphere	More formal and broad term, often used to describe the environmental or social context of a place or event. It can refer to both physical surroundings and the mood created by these settings. The atmosphere at the theater was electric before the show started. This restaurant has such a romantic atmosphere.
aura	Used to refer to the unseen energy or qualities that seem to radiate from a person, place, or thing. It is often used in contexts suggesting something mystical or unique about the source. He has an aura of confidence that makes everyone trust him. There's an eerie aura around this old house.
energy	Discusses the observable level of activity or enthusiasm in a person or place. It's applicable in both casual and somewhat professional contexts when describing dynamism. The energy at the concert was incredible; everyone was dancing and singing along. Her positive energy makes her stand out in the team.

Examples of usage

I love the vibes in this coffee shop, it's so cozy and welcoming.
She gives off such positive vibes, it's contagious.
The beach always gives me good vibes, I feel so relaxed here.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music slang

In music slang, 'vibes' can also refer to the overall mood, style, or character of a piece of music. It is used to describe the emotional impact and feel of a song or performance.

Synonyms

ambience, feeling, mood.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vibes	Use this word in casual or slang contexts to describe the general emotional atmosphere of a place or situation. It often implies a personal, subjective experience. I love the vibes at this beach; it’s so relaxing. She gives off such positive vibes.
mood	This word is often used to talk about a temporary state of mind or emotional tone, both for people and places. It can also describe the general emotional setting of creative works like books or movies. He's in a bad mood today. The movie set a dark and eerie mood.
feeling	This word is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts to describe both physical sensations and emotional states. It’s often personal and subjective. I have a strange feeling about this situation. The feeling of the wind on my face is amazing.
ambience	This word is used in more formal or descriptive contexts to talk about the character and atmosphere of a place. It’s often used in relation to spaces like restaurants, events, or interiors. The restaurant has a cozy ambience with dim lighting and soft music. The ambience of the city at night is magical.

Examples of usage

This song has such chill vibes, it's perfect for relaxing.
The band really nailed the retro vibes in their latest album.
I'm getting some serious summer vibes from this track.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'vibes' is derived from 'vibrations', used in the 1960s to describe the emotional atmosphere.
It became popular in the 1970s with the rise of psychedelic music and counterculture, emphasizing emotional resonance.
Originally, 'vibe' was used in jazz culture to describe the emotional connection between musicians and their audience.

Pop Culture

The term 'good vibes' became a popular mantra in the 1980s, promoting positivity and well-being.
In recent years, 'vibes' has been embraced by social media, with influencers often sharing posts about their 'vibes' to describe moods or atmospheres.
Various songs and artists have used the word in lyrics to encapsulate feelings or attitudes, such as in the popular song 'Good Vibes' by Masego.

Psychology

Studies suggest humans are sensitive to social cues, allowing us to pick up 'vibes' from others almost instinctively.
The concept of 'vibes' aligns with the idea of emotional intelligence, the ability to perceive and respond to the emotions of ourselves and others.
Positive or negative vibes affect not just personal interactions but also group dynamics in social and work settings.

Music

In music, different genres are associated with specific vibes; for instance, reggae often conveys relaxation and positivity.
Artists use rhythms and melodies to create vibes that evoke particular emotions in listeners, making music a powerful tool for emotional expression.
Live performances often create unique vibes that can shift based on audience interaction and energy levels.

Lifestyle

'Vibe' check has become a popular phrase, used to evaluate the emotional atmosphere of a situation before diving in.
Many people design their living spaces or outfits to reflect the 'vibe' they want to project, focusing on aesthetics and mood.
The wellness movement emphasizes maintaining good vibes through positive affirmations, meditation, and surrounding oneself with uplifting people.

Translations

Translations of the word "vibes" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vibrações

🇮🇳 वाइब्स

🇩🇪 Schwingungen

🇮🇩 getaran

🇺🇦 вібрації

🇵🇱 wibracje

🇯🇵 バイブス

🇫🇷 vibrations

🇪🇸 vibraciones

🇹🇷 titreşimler

🇰🇷 진동

🇸🇦 اهتزازات

🇨🇿 vibrace

🇸🇰 vibrácie

🇨🇳 氛围

🇸🇮 vibracije

🇮🇸 bylgjur

🇰🇿 вибрациялар

🇬🇪 ვიბრაციები

🇦🇿 vibrasiyalar

🇲🇽 vibraciones

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,571 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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31568 caesura
31569 manicure
31570 escapism
31571 vibes
31572 swatted
31573 thumbing
31574 emollient
...