DictionarySocial slang

Vibe Check

Definition

A test or question used to evaluate someone's mood, attitude, energy, or compatibility with a situation.

Example
Being kind to the restaurant staff helped him pass the vibe check.
How it is used

A vibe check may be a sincere question about how someone feels or an informal test of whether a person fits the desired mood or attitude. Someone may pass, fail, perform, or request a vibe check.

Origin and context

The phrase combines vibe, meaning an emotional atmosphere or impression, with check, meaning an evaluation. It appeared on social media by the late 2010s and became much more common during the early 2020s.

Common variations

pass the vibe check

To behave in a way considered compatible, trustworthy, pleasant, or appropriate for the situation.

fail the vibe check

To behave in a way considered uncomfortable, suspicious, unpleasant, or incompatible with the group.

vibe check?

A short question asking how people are feeling or testing the current mood.

Frequently asked questions
What does vibe check mean?

A vibe check evaluates someone's mood, attitude, energy, or compatibility with a group or situation.

What does pass the vibe check mean?

It means someone's behavior, attitude, or energy was considered pleasant, trustworthy, or appropriate.

Can a vibe check be a sincere question?

Yes. People may use vibe check as a casual way to ask friends how they are feeling.

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