give off

verb

gave off; given off; giving off; gives off

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

Now researchers have found that these clumps give off a distinctly floral scent—making the larvae the first animal known to mimic a flower’s smell. —Chris Simms, Scientific American, 12 Apr. 2026

Shoppers who grew up on disposable fast fashion are enlisting tailors and seamstresses to give off-the-rack purchases a custom fit or personal flair, to revive secondhand finds or to extend the lives of their wardrobes, according to fashion industry experts. —Anne D'innocenzio, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2026

Male toads here don't really give off princely vibes but travel on the backs of their much larger female partners, tightly holding on to ensure they are not dumped in favor of a rival upon reaching the waters. —ABC News, 9 Apr. 2026

Several regulars get day off Right fielder Jung Hoo Lee, catcher Patrick Bailey and center fielder Harrison Bader were all given off days for Tuesday evening’s game against the Phillies. —Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 8 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for give off

• cerenkov
• ashraf
• checkoff
• cutoff
• falloff
• handoff
• kickoff
• layoff
• liftoff
• markoff
• markov
• payoff

Kids Definition

give off

verb

: emit sense 1a

gave off a sweet smell