exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

: the act or process of exhausting : the state of being exhausted

Synonyms

• burnout
• collapse
• fatigue
• frazzle
• lassitude
• prostration
• tiredness
• weariness

Examples of exhaustion in a Sentence

He worked to the point of complete exhaustion.

the exhaustion of our natural resources

Recent Examples on the Web

Nor is stealth aided by growing evidence of his own neglectful self-care: exhaustion, panic attacks, blackouts, a limp from unattended jogging injuries, eventually audio and visual hallucinations. —Dennis Harvey, Variety, 14 Feb. 2025

However, the Magnificent 7 stocks have seen internal bifurcation in 2025, showing signs of exhaustion. —Jeff Kilburg, CNBC, 14 Feb. 2025

However, while leadership sees progress, employees often feel something entirely different: exhaustion. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 6 Feb. 2025

For those not familiar (or who maybe just have a bit of illness exhaustion!), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says animals infected with bird flu can shed the virus via saliva, mucus, and feces. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 6 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exhaustion

• heat exhaustion

Kids Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

1

: the act of exhausting

2

: the state of being exhausted

Medical Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion ig-ˈzȯs-chən 

1

: the act or process of exhausting : the state of being exhausted

suffered from physical and mental exhaustion

see heat exhaustion

2

: neurosis following overstrain or overexertion especially in military combat

Legal Definition

exhaustion

noun

ex·​haus·​tion

: the act or process of exhausting

even after the exhaustion of direct appellate review

—W. R. LaFave and J. H. Israel

specifically : exhaustion of remedies