give off

verb

gave off; given off; giving off; gives off
Synonyms of give offnext

transitive verb

1
: to send out as a branch
2
: emit
gave off an unpleasant smell

intransitive verb

: to branch off

Examples of give off in a Sentence

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.
Analyzing these waves confirmed that although energy is given off in gravitational waves during the merger, the total entropy of the black holes increases in accordance with the second law of thermodynamics. Robert Lea, Space.com, 1 June 2026 Tie-dye and neon nails give off a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of craft days at summer camp. Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 29 May 2026 Essential oils can be used in a diffuser that gives off a light, scented mist. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 29 May 2026 One of the latest challenges is hydrogen sulfide – a foul-smelling gas given off by decomposing bat droppings inside the chamber, that caused some crew members to faint, Kengkad told CNN. Kocha Olarn, CNN Money, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for give off

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of give off was in 1828

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Give off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/give%20off. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

give off

verb
: emit sense 1a
gave off a sweet smell

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