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radiate

verb

/ˈreɪ diˌeɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of radiate

To emit or spread out light, heat, energy, or other forms of radiation from a central source.
"The sun began to radiate its warmth as the day broke."

Detailed meaning of radiate

It describes the act of sending forth rays or waves in all directions, expanding outward from a point of origin. When something radiates, it emits a characteristic energy or quality that extends outward, creating a sense of diffusion or dispersion. This can be both literal and figurative. In a literal sense, objects such as the sun, a light bulb, or a heat source radiate light or warmth. Figuratively, a person can radiate positive energy, confidence, or joy, affecting those around them. The verb "radiate" conveys the idea of spreading or projecting outward, encompassing the notion of emanating a particular quality or form of energy from a central point and influencing the surrounding environment.

Example sentences containing radiate

1. Her smile seemed to radiate happiness throughout the room.
2. The heater will radiate heat once it’s turned on.
3. As she spoke about her passion, she seemed to radiate enthusiasm.
4. The lamp seemed to radiate a soft and comforting glow.
5. The stars radiate light across the vast universe.
6. The radio tower is designed to radiate signals over a large area.

History and etymology of radiate

The verb 'radiate' has its roots in the Latin word 'radiatus,' which is the past participle of 'radiare,' meaning 'to emit rays' or 'to shine.' This Latin term is related to 'radius,' signifying 'ray' or 'beam,' and it conveys the idea of emitting light, heat, energy, or other forms of radiation from a central source. Etymologically, 'radiate' is intricately connected to the concept of spreading out in a radial manner, much like the rays extending from a central point. Therefore, when we use the verb 'radiate' today, we are describing the action of emitting or spreading out light, heat, energy, or radiation in a manner that echoes its Latin origins, evoking the image of rays radiating from a central source.

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Further usage examples of radiate

1. The hot pavement began to radiate heat as the summer day wore on.
2. The crystals in the cave seemed to radiate a mystical energy.
3. She applied a special cream to her face that helped her skin radiate health.
4. When the choir sang, their voices seemed to radiate through the cathedral.
5. The stained glass windows radiate colors when the sunlight passes through them.
6. The lighthouse is there to radiate beams of light to guide ships at night.
7. When you radiate positivity, people are naturally drawn to you.
8. The fireflies radiate a soft light in the dark, creating a magical atmosphere.
9. The sun can radiate intense heat and light, warming our planet.
10. Her smile had the power to radiate happiness to everyone around.
11. The campfire began to radiate warmth as the flames grew stronger.
12. The star's brilliance can radiate across the vastness of space.
13. Energy-efficient bulbs radiate light while conserving electricity.
14. The nuclear reactor can radiate dangerous levels of radiation.
15. The lighthouse is designed to radiate a guiding beam of light.
16. The heater started to radiate much-needed warmth in the room.
17. The hot sand can radiate heat on a scorching summer day.
18. Crystals have the ability to radiate unique colors when hit by light.
19. The furnace can radiate heat throughout the entire house.
20. The artist's work seemed to radiate emotion and depth.
21. The gemstone seemed to radiate an inner, ethereal glow.
22. The bonfire began to radiate a comforting glow in the darkness.
23. The radioactive material can radiate harmful gamma rays.