exert

[ig-zurt]

verb (used with object)

1. to put forth or into use, as power; exercise, as ability or influence; put into vigorous action.

   to exert every effort.

2. to put (oneself ) into strenuous, vigorous action or effort.

exert

/ ɪɡˈzɜːt /

verb

1. to use (influence, authority, etc) forcefully or effectively

2. to apply (oneself) diligently; make a strenuous effort

Other Word Forms

• exertive adjective
• nonexertive adjective
• superexert verb (used with object)
• unexerted adjective
• well-exerted adjective
• exertion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exert¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from Latin ex(s)ertus, past participle of exserere “to thrust out,” from ex- ex- ¹ + serere “to connect, join together”

Word History and Origins

Origin of exert¹

C17 (in the sense: push forth, emit): from Latin exserere to thrust out, from _ex- ¹ + serere to bind together, entwine

Example Sentences

Their work shows that light can exert magnetic influence on matter, not simply illuminate it.

Read more on Science Daily

The EU has struggled to exert influence during the two-year war in Gaza due to splits within the bloc between countries supporting Israel and those closer to the Palestinians.

Read more on Barron's

That size, along with the amount of control Beijing exerts over state banks, gives it unique capabilities.

Read more on BBC

To exert more leverage, the Gestapo picked up Senesh’s mother in Budapest and gave Senesh a stark choice: Release the codes or watch her mother die.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Her parents were furious, and began to exert far more control over her life.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• apply 
• bring to bear 
• exercise 
• expend 
• strive 
• utilize 
• wield