Words / C2

ig-ZYOOD/ɪɡˈzjuːd/

Exude means give off a quality as if it were leaking from you: exude calm, exude confidence. Show is everyday; radiate is a close cousin. Literal exude is oozing liquid. Exclude is keep out — different word. Do not write exude for a single polite smile unless the quality fills the room.

Meaning

To give off a quality strongly, as if it were leaking from you.

Examples

• “He exuded calm even when the figures collapsed.”
• “The consultant exuded calm while the numbers did not.”
• “Pine resin exuded from the cut, which is the literal sense, not a personality.”

Good to know

Give off a quality strongly. Close: radiate. Literal: ooze. Mix-up: exclude (keep out). Not a fleeting smile.

Near in meaning

radiate

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