exertion

noun

ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən How to pronounce exertion (audio)
: the act or an instance of exerting
especially : a laborious or perceptible effort

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 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'exertion.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exertion was in 1677

Dictionary Entries Near exertion

Cite this Entry

“Exertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exertion. Accessed 24 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

exertion

noun
ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən How to pronounce exertion (audio)
: the act or an instance of exerting

More from Merriam-Webster on exertion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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