exercise

²exercise

verb

exercisedexercis·ing

Definition of EXERCISE

transitive verb

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>

intransitive verb

: to take exercise

— ex·er·cis·able \-ˌsī-zə-bəl\ adjective

Examples of EXERCISE

1. It's important to exercise every day.
2. He eats right and exercises regularly.
3. Bicycle riding exercises the leg muscles.
4. The stable boys exercise the horses every morning.
5. He didn't exercise good judgment.
6. We just need to exercise common sense.
7. She has been reluctant to exercise her authority.
8. Exercise caution when using these chemicals.

First Known Use of EXERCISE

14th century

Related to EXERCISE

Synonyms: apply, exert, ply, put out, wield

Antonyms: calm, compose, quiet, settle, soothe, tranquilize (also tranquillize)

Related Words: employ, use, utilize; abuse, misapply, misuse

Near Antonyms: ignore, neglect; misapply, misuse

see all synonyms and antonyms

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