exert

verb

ex·​ert ig-ˈzərt How to pronounce exert (audio)
exerted; exerting; exerts

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

Examples of exert in a Sentence

He had to exert all of his strength to move the stone. He exerts a lot of influence on the other members of the committee. the force exerted by the machine
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This situation could exert pressure to secure additional funds, potentially diluting the existing shareholders or necessitating the company to incur debt. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Raising that would exert upward pressure on low-wage jobs in general, putting more money in parents’ pockets. Anna North, Vox, 26 June 2025 The club exerted control over teams through possession and physical dominance. Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2025 Toss into the mix that certain forces exerted on the space object cause an incoming object to rotate. Leonard David, Space.com, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for exert

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

circa 1630, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of exert was circa 1630

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exert.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exert. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

exert

verb
ex·​ert ig-ˈzərt How to pronounce exert (audio)
1
: to put forth (as strength)
the force exerted by a machine
: bring into use or action
exert influence
2
: to put (oneself) into action or to tiring effort
don't exert yourself too much

More from Merriam-Webster on exert

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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