discharge (d/c) /dis″chärj/ [OFr, deschargier, to expel] , 1. v., to release a substance or object. See also evacuate, excrete, secrete. 2. v., to release a patient from a hospital. 3. v., to release an electric charge, which may be manifested by a spark or surge of electricity, from a storage battery, condenser, or other source. 4. v., to release a burst of energy from or through a neuron. 5. n., (in psychology) a release of emotions, often accompanied by a wide range of voluntary and involuntary reflexes, weeping, rage, or other emotional displays. Also called affective discharge. 6. n., a substance or object discharged. 7. n., the flow of a secretion or an excretion.
