ambiance

American

[am-bee-uhns, ahn-byahns] / ˈæm bi əns, ɑ̃ˈbyɑ̃s /

Or ambience

noun

plural

ambiances

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

The restaurant had a delightful ambiance.
that which surrounds or encompasses; environment.

Related Words

See environment.

Etymology

Origin of ambiance

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Expansive terraces, meditation gardens, and hidden courtyards evoke a world-class resort ambiance, while infinity pools and a private boathouse complete its coastal allure,” the description noted.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 14, 2026

“With two gated driveways, serene lawns, and a high-end tropical ambiance, this estate seamlessly blends privacy, prestige, and paradise. A one-of-a-kind legacy property – experience the ultimate Florida Keys lifestyle,” the listing adds.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 17, 2025

"It's just for the ambiance," says Shonnys Akoulatele a potential voter who believes there is more to governance than displaying campaign posters.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2025

The earnestness is almost as overwhelming as the ambiance.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2024

Post reviews on your profile, join book conversations in the forums, and bask in the book-loving ambiance.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023