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

Example Sentences

He was panting from the exertion of climbing the stairs.

an easy sport that requires little physical exertion

Recent Examples on the Web

In the wild, these birds start packing on weight in spring and fall in preparation for the extreme exertion of their journeys. —Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Feb. 2023

Thanks to the high-intensity exertion of running, however, each piece needs to also breathe effectively, wick moisture aggressively, and easily move with your body. —Peter Koch, Outside Online, 18 Oct. 2022

The real problem is exertion of abusive power by an administration that is hiding factual information on climate change and even telling lies to advance a cynical, and even venal, agenda. —Tom Yulsman, Discover Magazine, 30 Apr. 2017

More sobering is the risk of damaging your home through your metaversal exertion. —Peter Flax, Men's Health, 15 Feb. 2023

Some halftime performers have dazzled through exertion. —Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 13 Feb. 2023

Active children and adults and people with asthma and other lung diseases were advised to reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion through Monday. —Fox News, 6 Sep. 2022

The paper’s data includes details on Gayter’s sleep, hydration, and calories burned and consumed during each 24-hour cycle; her heart rate and perceived exertion while running; and ten-day changes in her body weight, fat, and muscle. —Amby Burfoot, Outside Online, 25 June 2022

Beyond that, someone may take a physically-demanding job to afford rent, where prolonged exertion can increase the risk of a pre-term birth. —Leslie Nemo, Discover Magazine, 20 Sep. 2021

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Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

exertion

noun

ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən 

: the act or an instance of exerting