rhizoverbBeta
DictionarydischargeSubstance flowing out
verb / noun

discharge

dis-CHARJ/dɪsˈtʃɑːrdʒ/

Release from a containing place or imposed control.

The pipe discharges treated water into the river every day.

Water forcefully flows out from a large drainage pipe into a channel.
Etymology
disLatindo the opposite of
+chargeLatinload a wagon

Reversing the action of loading gives the original image of unloading. That release of a load broadened to sending something out, as when a weapon fires or a river empties.

In context

CQ Fire & Safety1:12
squeeze squeeze the lever to discharge the extinguishing agent releasing the lever will stop the discharge
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Using the PASS Method

More examples

  • The doctor approves her discharge from the hospital.
  • He received an honorable discharge from the Army.
  • The officer discharged his weapon at the shooting range.
  • Touching the doorknob caused a small electrical discharge.

Forms

discharge · discharges · discharged · discharging

Similar words

release
Broader term for freeing someone or letting something out.
emit
Focuses on sending out substances, light, heat, or sound.
dismiss
Means sending someone away, especially from employment or duty.