vibe

Vibe is an informal English noun and verb that refers to the emotional tone, atmosphere, or character of a person, place, or situation. It describes the overall feel a setting or interaction conveys, often based on subjective perception rather than objective features. As a verb, to vibe with someone means to feel in harmony or compatible; to vibe on a mood means to align with a certain energy.

Originating from the shorter form of vibration, the term likely emerged in American slang in the mid-20th century and gained prominence through music and counterculture. It became common in general usage in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, aided by media and online discourse. The expression vibe check—assessing a person’s or thing’s mood or compatibility—has become widespread in youth culture and social platforms.

Vibe is inherently subjective and context-dependent; it can capture positive, negative, or neutral impressions. In branding and marketing, the concept is often used to describe or cultivate a distinct atmosphere or cultural feel. In academic or critical discussions, reliance on vibe may be viewed as imprecise, since it reflects personal perception rather than verifiable attributes. The term also intersects with related notions such as atmosphere, mood, ambiance, and aura, while remaining distinct in its emphasis on a holistic, experiential sense of energy.

See also: atmosphere, mood, ambiance, aura, vibe check.