emitted; emitting
Synonyms of emitnext

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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The atoms absorb the incoming light and re-emit it at much shorter wavelengths, producing vacuum ultraviolet radiation. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Mar. 2026 What to read next This phenomenon, known as the YORP effect, occurs when an asteroid absorbs sunlight and re-emits that energy as thermal radiation, creating a tiny but continuous thrust that can slowly spin the space rock faster. Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 11 Mar. 2026 Opponents argue that xAI understated the amount of pollution that will be emitted by its turbines in its permit application, with particular concerns around smog-forming nitrogen oxides and other pollutants that can be harmful to human health, including formaldehyde and airborne particulate matter. Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2026 Mice know cats can smell them, and cats emit chemicals that terrify mice. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for emit

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of emit was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Emit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emit. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

emit

verb
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

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