exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

: the act or process of exhausting : the state of being exhausted

Synonyms of exhaustion

• fatigue
• collapse

Examples of exhaustion in a Sentence

He worked to the point of complete exhaustion.

the exhaustion of our natural resources

Recent Examples on the Web

By then, the element of surprise is gone, the force may face enemy reinforcements, and the operators' exhaustion increases the likelihood of mistakes. —Sheena Samu, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026

To avoid exhaustion or resentment, protect that space to recharge. —Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 24 Mar. 2026

Heat leads to dehydration, exhaustion and overall inhospitable conditions. —Devika Rao, TheWeek, 23 Mar. 2026

If exhaustion gets dramatically worse upon standing, or if multiple diagnoses haven’t led to relief, POTS is worth raising with a provider. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 20 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exhaustion

• heat exhaustion

Rhymes for exhaustion

• faustian

Kids Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

1

: the act of exhausting

2

: the state of being exhausted

Medical Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

1

: the act or process of exhausting : the state of being exhausted

suffered from physical and mental exhaustion

see heat exhaustion

2

: neurosis following overstrain or overexertion especially in military combat

Legal Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion

: the act or process of exhausting

even after the exhaustion of direct appellate review

—W. R. LaFave and J. H. Israel

specifically : exhaustion of remedies