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exert

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verb ex·ert \ ig-ˈzərt \

Definition of exert

transitive verb
1 a :to put forth (strength, effort, etc.)
  • the force is exerted sideways
b :to put (oneself) into action or to tiring effort
  • won't have to exert himself moving the table
2 :to bring to bear especially with sustained effort or lasting effect
  • exerted a bad influence on his students
3 :employ, wield
  • exerted her leadership abilities intelligently

See exert defined for English-language learners

See exert defined for kids

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Examples of exert in a Sentence

  1. He had to exert all of his strength to move the stone.

  2. He exerts a lot of influence on the other members of the committee.

  3. the force exerted by the machine

Recent Examples of exert from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'exert.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of exert

Latin exsertus, past participle of exserere to thrust out, from ex- + serere to join — more at series

exert Synonyms

Synonyms
apply, exercise, ply, put out, wield
Related Words
employ, use, utilize; abuse, misapply, misuse

Phrases Related to EXERT

Related Phrases

EXERT Defined for English Language Learners

exert

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verb

Definition of exert for English Language Learners

  • : to use (strength, ability, etc.)

  • : to cause (force, effort, etc.) to have an effect or to be felt

EXERT Defined for Kids

exert

play
verb ex·ert \ ig-ˈzərt \

Definition of exert for Students

exerted; exerting
1 :to put forth (as strength) :bring into use
  • He exerted force to open the jar.
2 :to make an effort
  • She exerts herself to help others.

Learn More about exert

  1. See words that rhyme with exert Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for exert Spanish Central: Translation of exert Nglish: Translation of exert for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of exert for Arabic speakers

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Examples: exert in a Sentence