Entry Word: exercise

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 energetic movement of the body for the sake of physical fitness <the doctor ordered plenty of fresh air and exercise>

Synonyms activity, conditioning, exertion

Related Words training, warm-up, workout; toning, trimming; aerobics, bodybuilding, calisthenics, isometrics, weight lifting; physical therapy

2 something done over and over in order to develop skill <a young piano student dutifully going through the standard finger exercises>

Synonyms drill, practice (also practise), routine, training, workout

Related Words assignment, homework, lesson

3 the act or practice of employing something for a particular purpose <the observation that the best exercise for losing weight is the exercise of oneʼs ability to say no to food> — see use 1