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

Guests are paying up to A$3,199 to attend a "girls' weekend", with a VIP package including the opportunity to get a group table photograph with Meghan.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 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

"As she told one customer in 2020, 'I'm really select with people,' and 'it's a very VIP circle of celebs.'"

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

You also can view the main stage from the 12 Peaks VIP area.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Nowhere in the little-sister job requirements did it say that I had to break the heart of one of the VIP members of the girl squad.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi