Vibrate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vibrate

[หˆvaษช.breษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

phone

move or cause to move continuously and rapidly to and fro

Synonyms

quiver, shake, tremble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vibrate

Use 'vibrate' when something oscillates quickly and continuously, especially due to mechanical or electronic forces.

  • The phone began to vibrate on the table.
  • The loud music caused the windows to vibrate.
shake

Use 'shake' for a general, often more vigorous, movement of something from side to side or up and down. It can also describe someone's body moving due to strong emotions or physical reactions.

  • He shook the bottle to mix the ingredients.
  • She shivered and shook with cold.
tremble

Use 'tremble' to describe an involuntary, usually slight shaking movement, often due to fear, anxiety, or cold.

  • She began to tremble with fear when she heard the news.
  • The little dog trembled in the cold weather.
quiver

Use 'quiver' to describe a rapid, slight trembling or shaking, often because of a strong emotion.

  • Her hands began to quiver with excitement.
  • The leaves quivered in the gentle breeze.

Examples of usage

  • The phone vibrated on the table.
  • She could feel her phone vibrating in her pocket.
Context #2 | Noun

physics

a rapid back-and-forth movement or sound

Synonyms

oscillation, quiver, tremor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vibrate

Use 'vibrate' when referring to rapid back-and-forth motion, often in response to an external force or signal. It's commonly used to describe the motion of phones, machinery, or other objects.

  • My phone started to vibrate when I got a message.
  • The machine vibrated loudly as it processed the materials.
oscillation

Choose 'oscillation' to describe repetitive back-and-forth motion with a regular rhythm. It's often used in scientific, electronic, or mechanical contexts.

  • The oscillation of the pendulum helps keep time in the clock.
  • We measured the frequency of the oscillation in the electrical circuit.
quiver

'Quiver' is best used when describing a slight, rapid shaking, often caused by emotion or weakness. It carries a more delicate or subtle connotation.

  • She felt a quiver in her voice as she began to speak.
  • The autumn leaves quivered in the gentle breeze.
tremor

Use 'tremor' to describe an involuntary shaking, often related to medical conditions, fear, or movements in the earth. It usually has a negative or serious connotation.

  • He experienced a tremor in his hands due to the neurological disorder.
  • Residents felt a mild tremor during the earthquake.

Examples of usage

  • The vibration of the strings produced a beautiful melody.
  • The machine emitted a loud vibration during operation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Physics

  • Vibrations occur in solid, liquid, and gas mediums, influencing sound production.
  • The frequency and amplitude of a vibration determine its pitch and loudness.
  • Seismic waves from earthquakes illustrate how vibrations travel through the Earth.

Technology

  • Smartphones utilize vibration alerts to notify users discreetly, enhancing communication.
  • Transducers are devices that convert electrical signals into mechanical vibrations, used in speakers and audio equipment.
  • Micro-vibrations are now used in various health and beauty devices for therapeutic purposes.

Music

  • In music, vibrations create sound waves; higher frequencies result in higher pitches.
  • Musicians often feel vibrations of instruments, adding a physical connection to their performance.
  • The concept of 'vibrato' in singing involves slight, rapid vibrations of pitch to enhance musical expression.

Psychology

  • Research shows that physical vibrations can influence emotions and mood, creating a calming effect.
  • Dance and music, both rooted in vibration, can enhance social bonding and emotional well-being.
  • Certain frequency ranges of sound vibrations are believed to promote relaxation and mindfulness.

Origin of 'vibrate'

Main points about word origin

  • Originated from the Latin word 'vibratus', meaning 'to shake' or 'to pulsate'.
  • The word entered English in the early 17th century, primarily used in poetic and scientific contexts.
  • Its usage expanded in the 20th century with advancements in technology, especially related to sound and music.

The word 'vibrate' originated from the Latin word 'vibratus', which means to move rapidly to and fro. The concept of vibration has been studied in physics and engineering for centuries, with applications in various fields such as music, machinery, and technology. The understanding of vibrations has led to advancements in science and technology, contributing to the development of innovative devices and systems.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,382, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.