emit

verb

ē-ˈmit 

emitted; emitting

transitive verb

1

a

: to throw or give off or out

emit light/heat

b

: to send out : eject

2

a

: to issue with authority

especially : to put (something, such as money) into circulation

b

obsolete : publish

3

: to give utterance or voice to

emitted a groan

emitter noun

Synonyms

• cast
• discharge
• emanate
• evolve
• exhale
• expel
• expire [archaic]
• give out
• irradiate
• issue
• radiate
• release
• send (out)
• shoot
• throw out
• vent

Examples of emit in a Sentence

The telescope can detect light emitted by distant galaxies.

chimneys emitting thick, black smoke

The brakes emitted a loud squeal.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite this enthusiasm, the world continues to emit significant amounts of CO2 each year. —Sahit Muja, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024

Nuclear energy is a climate solution in that its reactors don't emit the planet-warming greenhouse gases that come from power plants that burn fossil fuels, such as oil, coal and gas. —CBS News, 16 Oct. 2024

When the Sun goes down, this emits an eerie and enigmatic glow, to help guide you through those deep dark nights in the wilderness. —New Atlas, 8 Oct. 2024

Lights with Kelvin ratings of 3000 or less give off a warmer glow and emit less blue light. —Madeline Heim, Journal Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin emittere to send out, from e- + mittere to send

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing emit

• re-emit

Kids Definition

emit

verb

ē-ˈmit 

emitted; emitting

1

a

: to throw or give off or out

emit light

b

: to send out : eject

2

: utter entry 2 sense 1

emit a groan

Etymology

from Latin emittere "to send out," from e-, ex- "out, forth" and mittere "to send, throw" — related to dismiss, message, missile, transmit