verb
Uncommon
emit
ee-MIHT
Emit (verb) means to send out or release something, such as light, sound, heat, or a substance. Example: “The old radiator emits a faint clicking noise when it heats up.”
verb
1
To send out or release something, such as light, sound, heat, or a substance.
"The old radiator emits a faint clicking noise when it heats up."
"The volcano emitted a thick cloud of ash."
2
In computing, to produce or output specific code or instructions when a program runs or compiles.
"The compiler emits optimized machine code for the target processor."
How to use emit
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo give off or release something, like light, heat, sound, or gas.
Common pairings
emit light
emit a sound
emit fumes
emit heat
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- emits
- Past tense
- emitted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old radiator _____ a faint clicking noise when it heats up.
Etymology
From Latin emittere, "to send out" — a combination of ex- ("out") and mittere ("to send").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for emit
See all rhymes for emit →Frequently asked questions
What does “emit” mean?
The word “emit” means to send out or release something, such as light, sound, heat, or a substance. In plain terms, to give off or release something, like light, heat, sound, or gas.
How do you pronounce “emit”?
“Emit” is pronounced ee-MIHT (/iˈmɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “emit” in a sentence?
Here is “emit” used in a sentence: “The old radiator emits a faint clicking noise when it heats up.”
What is another word for “emit”?
Words with a similar meaning to “emit” include effuse, give off, give out, output, outsend and put forth.
What is the opposite of “emit”?
The opposite of “emit” — its antonyms — are absorb, consume, swallow and take in.
What part of speech is “emit”?
“Emit” is a verb.
Where does the word “emit” come from?
The word “emit” comes from Latin. From Latin emittere, "to send out" — a combination of ex- ("out") and mittere ("to send").
Is “emit” a common word?
“Emit” is an uncommon word in modern English.
