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Discharge - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Discharge means to release or let something out, such as liquid, gas, or a person from duty. It can also refer to the completion of a responsibility, like discharging a debt.

discharge

/dɪsˈtʃɑrdʒ/ /dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒ/

Definition:

To release or let go, especially from confinement or duty; emit or unload something.

Synonyms:

release, emit, dismiss, unload, expel

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

retain, admit

Common Collocations:

discharge a patient, discharge a duty, discharge electricity, discharge a weapon

Derivatives:

discharged, discharging

Usage Tips:

Use "discharge" for releasing substances (e.g., water) or people (e.g., patients); avoid confusion with "fire" when referring to jobs.

Common Phrases:

honorable discharge, discharge one's duties, discharge into the river

Etymology:

From Old French "descharger," meaning to unload or free from a burden; Latin "dis-" (apart) + "carricare" (to load).

Examples:

  • 1. The hospital will discharge the patient tomorrow.
  • 2. The factory was fined for discharging waste into the river.
  • 3. He received an honorable discharge from the military.
  • 4. The battery can discharge energy quickly when needed.

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