Tran*spire" (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Transpired (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Transpiring.] [F. transpirer; L. trans across, through + spirare to breathe. See Spirit.]

1. Physiol.

To pass off in the form of vapor or insensible perspiration; to exhale.

2. Bot.

To evaporate from living cells.

3.

To escape from secrecy; to become public; as, the proceedings of the council soon transpired.

The story of Paulina's and Maximilian's mutual attachment had transpired through many of the travelers. De Quincey.

4.

To happen or come to pass; to occur.

⇒ This sense of the word, which is of comparatively recent introduction, is common in the United States, especially in the language of conversation and of newspaper writers, and is used to some extent in England. Its use, however, is censured by critics of both countries. <-- still common in 1995 -->

 

© Webster 1913.


Tran*spire", v. t.

1. Physiol.

To excrete through the skin; to give off in the form of vapor; to exhale; to perspire.

2. Bot.

To evaporate (moisture) from living cells.

 

© Webster 1913.