Radiate: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing something that is spreading out from a central point, often light, heat, energy, or emotions. It can describe both physical and metaphorical spreading.

• The sun radiates heat and light.
• She radiates confidence wherever she goes.

Best for describing something that is sending out a substance, force, or value, usually in a more scientific or technical context.

• The factory emits a lot of pollutants.
• This machine emits a noise when it operates.

Appropriate when referring to something that reflects light brightly or stands out in excellence or talent.

• The stars shine in the night sky.
• She really shines in her new role.

Commonly used when talking about something that seems to ooze or come out steadily, either literally or metaphorically. Often used for subtler, more natural emissions.

• The tree exuded a sticky sap.
• He exudes charm.

This word is often used when something emits energy, light, or heat in all directions from a central point, but it can also describe a person who exudes a strong quality, such as happiness or confidence.

• The sun radiates warmth and light
• She radiated confidence during her presentation

Project is typically used to describe the act of throwing or sending out something physically, or to display a particular quality or emotion. It’s also used when speaking about presenting thoughts or images.

• He projected the image onto the screen for everyone to see
• She projects an air of authority in meetings

Emanate is used when something spreads out from a source, particularly in a more subtle and refined way compared to 'radiate'. It often conveys the idea of a source being at the core of the spreading phenomena.

• A sense of calm emanated from the serene garden
• The scent of freshly baked bread emanated from the kitchen