exertion

noun

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

Synonyms of exertion

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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.
During exertion tests in hot environments, co-founder Roland Washington says people wearing the device have been able to maintain core temperatures of up to 2°F lower than those without, which can make all the difference. — Hannah Singleton, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The Bureau of Labor Statistics defines physically demanding jobs as those that require certain levels and durations of physical exertion, such as climbing, heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, standing or walking. — Lorie Konish, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026 Adidas Running Hydration & Matcha Ritual Vest, which reimagines the traditional running vest as an on-the-go matcha kit for runners balancing exertion with recovery. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 23 Sep. 2026 Lula very pointedly locates the threat differently, emphasizing the ability to resist a foreign power’s undue exertions of leverage. — Andre Pagliarini, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exertion

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exertion was circa 1676

Rhymes for exertion

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Browse Nearby Words

exert
exertion
exertional
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Cite this Entry

“Exertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exertion. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

exertion

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