VIP

American  

[vee-ahy-pee] / ˈviˈaɪˈpi /

Or V.I.P.

Informal.

1. very important person.

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VIP British  

abbreviation

1. very important person

2. visually impaired person

3. vasoactive intestinal peptide: a polypeptide secreted by the small intestine during digestion and also found in the brain as a neurotransmitter: large amounts in the blood cause diarrhoea

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VIP Cultural  

1. An abbreviation for “V ery I mportant P erson”: “The luncheon will be exclusive, with VIPs only.”

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Usage

What does VIP mean? VIP (or V. I. P.) is an abbreviation of very important person. VIP is an informal way to refer to someone who is notable in some way and is given special treatment in a particular setting. It is also used to describe things involving special access for such people, as in phrases like VIP treatment or VIP pass. The plural of VIP is VIPs. Example: The hotel provides additional security for the rooms reserved by VIPs like heads of state.

Etymology

Origin of VIP

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Those willing to pay even more get access to the "VIP experience" -- which includes a group table photo with Meghan and a goodie bag.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

The Absolut Heat Haus, Soho House’s VIP pop-up The Hideout, and the Coca-Cola Pop Shop are just a few of the brand activations that aim to build a rapport with the festival audience.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

If you see those special viewing pits near the stage, the VIP passes do not get you to there.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

"It was a bit looser than a friendship - it was more intrigue," says Hutchcroft, noting Barrett appeared to love playing the VIP in fashion houses and members' clubs.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

It was my golden ticket, almost like a VIP pass to any funeral I wanted to go to.

From "The Boy in the Black Suit" by Jason Reynolds