exercise

1 a :  the act of bringing into play or realizing in action :  use <the exercise of self-control> b :  the discharge of an official function or professional occupation <exercise of his judicial duties> c :  the act or an instance of carrying out the terms of an agreement (as an option) —often used attributively <an option's exercise price>

2 a :  regular or repeated use of a faculty or bodily organ b :  bodily exertion for the sake of developing and maintaining physical fitness <trying to get more exercise>

3 :  something performed or practiced in order to develop, improve, or display a specific capability or skill <arithmetic exercises> <vocal exercises>

4 :  a performance or activity having a strongly marked secondary or ulterior aspect <party politics has always been an exercise in compromise — H. S. Ashmore>

5 a :  a maneuver, operation, or drill carried out for training and discipline <naval exercises> b plural :  a program including speeches, announcements of awards and honors, and various traditional practices of secular or religious character <commencement exercises>

1 a :  to make effective in action :  use <didn't exercise good judgment> b :  to bring to bear :  exert <exercise influence> c :  to implement the terms of (as an option)

2 a :  to use repeatedly in order to strengthen or develop <exercise a muscle> b :  to train (as troops) by drills and maneuvers c :  to put through exercises <exercise the horses>

3 a :  to engage the attention and effort of b :  to cause anxiety, alarm, or indignation in <the issues exercising voters this year>

:  to take exercise