exertion

noun

ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən 

: the act or an instance of exerting

especially : a laborious or perceptible effort

Synonyms

• activity
• conditioning
• exercise

Examples of exertion in a Sentence

He was panting from the exertion of climbing the stairs.

an easy sport that requires little physical exertion

Recent Examples on the Web

The exertion from trying to break free from the current causes fatigue as the current continues to pull them out, experts say. —Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025

Colby Rex O'Neill/AFP via Getty Images Young children and older adults were recommended to avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities. —Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Sep. 2025

Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion, as conditions dictate. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 3 Sep. 2025

Lind’s film also documents the intense physical and mental exertion required of Isaac to pull off the role of Hamlet. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for exertion

• assertion
• cistercian
• coercion
• desertion
• insertion
• mercian
• overexertion
• reassertion

Kids Definition

exertion

noun

ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən 

: the act or an instance of exerting