Synonym Chooser

How does the verb emanate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of emanate are arise, derive, flow, issue, originate, proceed, rise, spring, and stem. While all these words mean "to come up or out of something into existence," emanate applies to the coming of something immaterial (such as a thought) from a source.

reports emanating from the capital

How do arise and rise relate to one another, in the sense of emanate?

Arise and rise may both convey the fact of coming into existence or notice but rise often stresses gradual growth or ascent.

new questions have arisen
slowly rose to prominence

When would derive be a good substitute for emanate?

In some situations, the words derive and emanate are roughly equivalent. However, derive implies a prior existence in another form.

the holiday derives from an ancient Roman feast

How are the words flow and spring related as synonyms of emanate?

Flow adds to spring a suggestion of abundance or ease of inception.

words flowed easily from her pen

When is it sensible to use issue instead of emanate?

While the synonyms issue and emanate are close in meaning, issue suggests emerging from confinement through an outlet.

blood issued from the cut

In what contexts can originate take the place of emanate?

The meanings of originate and emanate largely overlap; however, originate implies a definite source or starting point.

the fire originated in the basement

When could proceed be used to replace emanate?

While in some cases nearly identical to emanate, proceed stresses place of origin, derivation, parentage, or logical cause.

advice that proceeds from the best of intentions

When might spring be a better fit than emanate?

The words spring and emanate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, spring implies rapid or sudden emerging.

an idea that springs to mind

Where would stem be a reasonable alternative to emanate?

Although the words stem and emanate have much in common, stem implies originating by dividing or branching off from something as an outgrowth or subordinate development.

industries stemming from space research

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of emanate The head of the French military, Gen. Thierry Burkhard, laid out risks emanating from Russia that stretch well beyond Ukraine. Angela Charlton, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025 All the while, the sprite appears to glow brightly alongside artificial light emanating from the cities below. Anthony Wood, Space.com, 6 July 2025 Tucked behind a small two-story log cabin, the entrance to The Gorge Underground is easy to overlook—until the unseasonably cool air that emanates from the cavern opening stops you in your tracks. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 4 July 2025 Organizers with Kansas City’s Pride Fest reported in early May being short $200,000 in funding this year and tied it directly on the anti-DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) and anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric that has emanated from President Donald Trump’s White House. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for emanate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for emanate
Verb
  • Nara's more recent paintings, such as Midnight Tears (2023), feature tender, fragmented brushwork that radiates introspection.
    Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • Their vocal harmonies intertwine easily over a textured arrangement of keys, bass, drums, and guitars, creating an uplifting summer anthem that radiates sincerity and charm.
    Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 21 July 2025
Verb
  • For example, cruise ships in Europe emit as much sulfur dioxide as one billion cars, according to a recent study.
    Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025
  • Different materials in space absorb and emit infrared light at specific wavelengths, creating a kind of unique chemical fingerprint.
    Adi Foord, Space.com, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • They're cast as hard-rock goofballs who take a radio station hostage with water pistols filled with hot sauce to get their demo tape played.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 29 July 2025
  • Its own sly twist casts Robert Mitchum—the original Cady—as the elderly, honorable police lieutenant Elgart, and Gregory Peck, 1962’s Bowden, as Cady’s defense attorney.
    Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 29 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Emanate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/emanate. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on emanate

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