perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of perspiring

2

: a saline fluid secreted by the sweat glands : sweat

Examples of perspiration in a Sentence

She wiped the perspiration from her forehead.

Recent Examples on the Web

Researchers have discovered that perspiration may carry far more information and may be easier to stimulate, gather, and analyze than previously thought. —IEEE Spectrum, 22 Oct. 2014

As the lotus-eaters writhe and spin, I am routinely spritzed with centrifugal drops of their ample perspiration, a kind of patchouli-scented mist that doesn’t exactly conduce to ecstatic soul communion. —Barrett Swanson, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025

And its airy structure delivers both warmth and ventilation: The pile provides insulation while also moving perspiration and excess heat away from your body. —Kelly Bastone, Outside Online, 31 Oct. 2024

The suit is also incredibly breathable because of a proprietary weaving technique which helps the rider experience less perspiration and fluid loss as a result. —New Atlas, 27 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for perspiration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perspiring

2

: a salty fluid given off by the sweat glands : sweat

Medical Definition

perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perspiring

2

: a saline fluid that is secreted by the sweat glands, that consists chiefly of water containing sodium chloride and other salts, nitrogenous substances (as urea), carbon dioxide, and other solutes, and that serves both as a means of excretion and as a regulator of body temperature through the cooling effect of its evaporation