give off

verb

gave off; given off; giving off; gives off

transitive verb

1
: to send out as a branch
2
: emit
gave off an unpleasant smell

intransitive verb

: to branch off

Examples of give off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The silver and yellow combo just gives off a fun audiophile vibe to me. Chris Welch, The Verge, 18 July 2024 Residents of tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, the insects give off an unpleasant odor when threatened, revealing their relation to stink bugs. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 July 2024 Quick-drying and stretchy, the shorts' 5-inch inseam also offers freedom of movement, and their sleek look gives them a put-together feel that won't give off gym short vibes. Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2024 Your lotus will grow blooms that can last for just under a week, giving off a sweet scent and beautiful array of colors for your garden. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for give off 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'give off.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of give off was in 1831

Dictionary Entries Near give off

Cite this Entry

“Give off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/give%20off. Accessed 12 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

give off

verb
: emit sense 1a
gave off a sweet smell

More from Merriam-Webster on give off

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