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 of emit

• radiate
• cast
• emanate
• release

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

For instance, materials that don’t emit disruptive magnetic fields could allow electronic components to be placed much closer together without interference. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 25 Apr. 2026

After decades of denial, most manufacturers acknowledge the impact of carbon-emitting products on climate. —Jamie Lincoln Kitman, Rolling Stone, 24 Apr. 2026

The team also wants to know why cosmic buckyballs are emitting infrared wavelengths in a way not predicted by models of how ultraviolet radiation is absorbed. —Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 23 Apr. 2026

When disturbed — by waves, predators or even a curious beachgoer’s touch — the organism emits a blue-green glow. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 23 Apr. 2026

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

Rhymes for emit

• acquit
• admit
• amrit
• armpit
• backlit
• befit
• cockpit
• commit
• dalit
• dendrite
• illite
• misfit

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