ambiance

or am·bi·ence

[ am-bee-uhns; French ahn-byahns ]

noun

, plural am·bi·anc·es [am, -bee-, uh, n-siz, ah, n, -, byahns].

1. the mood, character, quality, tone, atmosphere, etc., particularly of an environment or milieu:

   The restaurant had a delightful ambiance.

2. that which surrounds or encompasses; environment.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambiance¹

First recorded in 1885–95; from French, equivalent to ambi(ant) “surrounding” ( Middle French, also ambient ), from Latin; ambient + -ance -ance

Synonym Study

See environment.

Example Sentences

Director Sam Pinkleton turns up the party volume in a revival that sometimes allows the comic ambiance to get the better of its emotional through line.

From Los Angeles Times

The wine, service, drinks, ambiance and vibe are all equally as important as the food or price you're paying.

From Salon

The earnestness is almost as overwhelming as the ambiance.

From Los Angeles Times

Each concept has offered something unique to Washington but with a consistent commitment to great food, service and ambiance true to our brand.

From Salon

It’s all infused with the ambiance of a country lodge.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ambience
• atmosphere
• environs
• milieu
• surroundings