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

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

Some investors are looking past the government shutdown, which they view as recurring events that exert little impact on markets.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

She said there had also been a rise in eating disorders, which could be partly explained as an attempt to exert control or because of the increased time spent online.

Read more on BBC

Constitutional scholars and other 1st amendment advocates said the administration and Carr have clearly been exerting inappropriate pressure on media companies.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The media owners make the profit and the government exerts control.

Read more on Salon

He called on the international community, especially the countries sponsoring the ceasefire, "to exert maximum pressure on Israel to immediately stop its aggressions", to immediately withdraw from Lebanese territory and release prisoners.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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