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emission

n.
US //ɪˈmɪʃən// UK //ɪmˈɪʃən// emis·sion
  1. 1 gas or radiation released (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    a substance, such as a gas, that is sent out into the air.

    a substance, typically a pollutant or greenhouse gas, discharged into the atmosphere.

    Example

    The government is trying to reduce carbon emissions from cars and factories.

    Example

    The new environmental regulations mandate a significant reduction in methane emissions from industrial agricultural facilities by the end of the decade.
  2. 2 the act of sending out (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the process of sending out light, heat, or sound.

    the physical process of discharging or radiating energy or matter from a source.

    Example

    The emission of light from the screen can make it hard to sleep.

    Example

    The precise measurement of thermal emission allows scientists to determine the surface temperature of distant planets without direct contact.
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  1. 3 a broadcast (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal

    a radio or television programme.

    a broadcast or transmission of a programme, often used in the context of international media.

    Example

    The station began its nightly emission of news at seven o'clock.

    Example

    The shortwave emission was intended for audiences across the border, providing an alternative perspective on the unfolding political crisis.

    Usage

    This sense is more common in European English contexts influenced by French 'émission' or in formal media studies.
Etymology 1

First attested in 1607. From Middle French émission, from Latin ēmissiō (“sending forth”), from ēmittō (“send out”), from ex (“from, out of”) + mittō (“send”).

Etymology 2

Borrowed from French émission.

Word family
  • Verbemit
  • Nounemission

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