Eject

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪˈdʒɛkt/

Definitions

• 1. To force or throw something out, typically with force or authority.
• 2. To remove someone from a place, event, or situation, often forcibly or abruptly.
• 3. (in sports) To remove a player from the game due to a violation or rule-breaking.
• 4. (in computing) To remove a disk or device from a system or device, typically a CD, DVD, or USB drive.

Usage Examples

• "The referee had to eject the player for unsportsmanlike conduct."
• "The machine automatically ejected the disc after the process was complete."
• "He was ejected from the club for causing a disturbance."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin verb "eicere," meaning "to throw out," formed from "ex-" meaning "out" and "iacere" meaning "to throw." The word "eject" has been in use in English since the late 16th century.

Synonyms

• Expel
• Throw out
• Remove
• Oust
• Discharge

Antonyms

• Admit
• Allow
• Accept
• Include
• Invite

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regional dialects, "eject" may be pronounced with slight variations, particularly in stressed syllables. In American English, the pronunciation often maintains a stronger emphasis on the first syllable, while British English may soften the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The verb "eject" has been used in English since the early 16th century. Initially, it was applied mainly in contexts of physical removal, such as in military or legal terms. Over time, the word expanded to metaphorical uses, especially in sports, technology, and general conversational language, to describe both physical and figurative expulsions.

Cultural Nuances

"Eject" has specific connotations in different cultural contexts. In sports, for example, being "ejected" is a common term used for dismissing a player from a game due to a foul or misconduct. In technology, "ejecting" a device, such as a disk or USB, signifies safely removing it. Cultural attitudes towards ejection vary, particularly when it involves individuals, such as being ejected from an event or location, where it may be seen as either a penalty or a disciplinary action.

More Information

The word "eject" is versatile, with various applications in different fields such as law, technology, sports, and everyday life. It retains a central meaning of expulsion or removal, either literal or metaphorical. Understanding its usage in context is essential for grasping its full significance, especially given the word's broad usage across different sectors and disciplines.