plural exploits
: an exciting act or action
—usually plural
performing heroic exploits [=feats]
He enjoys talking about his youthful exploits. [=adventures]
a book about his sexual exploits
exploits; exploited; exploiting
1
: to get value or use from (something)
He has never fully exploited his talents.
Top athletes are able to exploit their opponents' weaknesses.
We need to exploit [=take advantage of] this opportunity/situation.
exploit natural resources
2
: to use (someone or something) in a way that helps you unfairly
They were accused of exploiting [=taking advantage of] migrant workers.
She said the tragedy had been exploited by the media.
Cite this Entry
“Exploit.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/exploit. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.
Copy Citation
