A field emission cathode device and method for forming a field emission cathode device involve a cathode element having a field emission surface disposed in spaced-apart relation to a gate electrode element so as to define a gap between the field emission surface and the gate electrode element. The gate electrode element extends laterally between opposing anchored ends. The gate electrode element is arranged to deform away from the field emission surface in response to heat, so as to increase the gap between the field emission surface and the gate electrode element.