What Does Emit Mean?

Answer 1

To GIVE OUT, LET OUT or SEND OUT.

For example, we say that the Sun emits ~ 3.86 x !0^33 ergs of luminous radiation per second. The "OUT" part of my definition accords with the idea that the light EXITS the Sun. To my mind, saying that it "gives off" that much radiation doesn't quite convey the same impression. Also, the synonym "LET OUT" suggests that something possibly on its way already (in the Sun's case, energy coming from deep below its surface) is finally "let out" from its surface layers.

We could also consider alternatives for the following sentence:

"The frightened person emitted a loud shriek."

Would we say instead, "He/she GAVE OFF a loud shriek", "He/she LET OFF a loud shriek" or "He/she LET OUT a loud shriek"? --- I think I prefer the latter alternative.

Consider also another two (related) examples:

A dog might indeed "emit" a large turd. (That usage could imply that it was ejected with a certain propulsive power, or that it was merely "let out" or "sent out.") But, once the turd were lying there (on the sidewalk, unfortunately), I think that I would be more likely to say that it was "giving off" a foul stench rather than "emitting" a foul stench. In other words, in this latter context I wouldn't use "emit" --- it might be thought a bit pretentious for the circumstances. I'd be much more likely to say "giving off" a foul stench. That implies the circumstances of the turd just passively lying there (if you'll forgive my extended disquisition on this indelicate example), and the disgusting aroma simply wafting upwards and/or away on its own. One wouldn't be misunderstood in saying the "emit" --- it's more a sense of preferred personal nuance in the language. (Degustibus nil disputandum.)

"Ejaculation" is I think a bit too forceful--- as indeed it may often be, regrettably, in practice. "Eject," however, might be O.K., depending on the other circumstances. "The siren emitted a high-pitched warning" is perfectly acceptable. Neither "gave off" or "let off" seems quite appropriate then; but "gave out," "let out" or "sent out" would be fine and quite acceptable alternatives.

Live long and prosper.

Answer 2

Release

Answer 3

to give off

Answer 4

ejaculate