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

Examples of exertion in a Sentence

He was panting from the exertion of climbing the stairs. an easy sport that requires little physical exertion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Patrick wears one of the trackers on his uniform sleeve every game to measure his cardiovascular exertion. Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 8 May 2025 But that specificity, that exertion of agency, comes largely in those films’ first two acts. Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 22 Apr. 2025 All residents should consider limiting prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 24 Mar. 2025 This lung disease causes shortness of breath, especially with exertion. Smita Patel, Verywell Health, 26 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exertion

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exertion was in 1677

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Cite this Entry

“Exertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exertion. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

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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