# radiate

/ˈɹeɪdiˌeɪt/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪdɪˌeɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/radiate
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to spread from a center

verb · CEFR B2

to spread out in all directions from a central point, like the spokes of a wheel.

For teachers: to extend or spread out from a central point in a radial pattern.

- Several small paths radiate from the fountain in the middle of the park.
- The city's primary boulevards radiate from the central square, creating a geometric layout that facilitates movement toward the outskirts.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'from'.

### 2. to emit energy

verb · CEFR B2 · Technical

to send out heat, light, or other energy.

For teachers: to emit energy in the form of rays or waves.

- The hot metal began to radiate heat as soon as it left the fire.
- The sun radiates vast amounts of electromagnetic energy, only a fraction of which reaches the Earth's atmosphere.

### 4. having rays

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

having parts that grow or spread out from a center, like the petals of a daisy.

For teachers: characterized by parts that diverge from a central point; having radial symmetry.

- The flower has a radiate shape with many thin petals around the middle.
- The specimen exhibited a radiate structure, typical of certain marine organisms that possess multiple axes of symmetry.

## Examples

- The sun radiates heat and light across the solar system.
- The scientist observed how the plant's leaves radiate outward to capture as much sunlight as possible.
- The starfish's arms radiate from a central disc, a characteristic arrangement that allows for efficient movement and feeding across the ocean floor.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.