Word
discharge
Meanings
to release someone from a job, duty, or a place such as a hospital; the act of doing this
to fire a weapon; the act of firing
to let a substance or energy flow out, especially liquid, gas, or electricity; the act of this happening
Definition
Discharge is the act of releasing someone or something, or the act of firing a weapon or sending out a substance like liquid or electricity.
Discharge can mean releasing a person from duty, responsibility, or a place such as a hospital. It can also refer to the act of firing a gun or letting something flow out, such as water, chemicals, or electricity. In formal contexts, it may describe completing or carrying out an obligation, but learners most often meet it in the senses of release or emission.
Examples
- After a brief observation period, the hospital decided to discharge him with clear aftercare instructions.
- The officer was careful not to discharge the firearm unless the situation truly required it.
- A sudden spark can discharge static electricity from your hand into a metal doorknob.
- The factory must not discharge wastewater into the stream without proper treatment.
- Once the committee reviewed her conduct, it chose not to discharge her from the role.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse discharge (release or emit) with dismiss (send someone away from a job) and use the wrong verb in workplace contexts.
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