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

The tradition of wearing white at Wimbledon also began during this era in 1890, primarily because white garments were seen as a way to avoid showing perspiration, a crucial consideration in the social dynamics of the time where women were expected to appear composed and unruffled. —Jon Haworth, ABC News, 9 July 2024

Called hyperhidrosis, this disorder is characterized by perspiration (from the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, head and face, and other areas) beyond what the body requires to regulate internal temperature. —Don Rauf, EverydayHealth.com, 3 July 2024

Designed to address odor and sometimes even keep perspiration at bay, these formulas are the answer to staying fresh long after a morning shower. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 2 July 2024

Slightly warm temperatures and conditions that moderately increase perspiration can trigger mild heat rash. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 1 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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