exertion

noun

ig-ˈzər-shən How to pronounce exertion (audio)
Definition of exertionnext
1
as in activity
energetic movement of the body for the sake of physical fitness often the television addict's greatest attempt at exertion was switching channels on the remote control

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in effort
the active use of energy in producing a result the number of blueberries that we were finding was hardly worth the exertion

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of exertion Too many brands exhaust their marketing budgets fighting for attention during the primary event when real power lies in owning the transitional micro-moment immediately following exertion. — Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 The trek involves steep, high-altitude terrain, and travelers should prepare for variable weather and physical exertion before setting off. — Ashley Lynch july 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026 With that, his exertions in perfecting his homegrown colony process—the green smoothie for caterpillars, testing procedures for parasites—came into clearer view for me. — Vann R. Newkirk Ii, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026 Taking a break should never be considered a reward only given in exchange for profound exertion or high achievement. — Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for exertion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exertion
  1. activity
  2. effort
  3. conditioning
  4. work
  5. exercise
Noun
  • Detectives are asking anyone who knew him or has information about his friends, associates or recent activities to come forward.
    — Nicholas Lentz, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
  • An agreement with Barcelona for Rodri was finally reached on Sunday evening, which should spark a lot of other activity.
    — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of activity
Noun
  • Albeit in an uncompetitive effort, the Falcons’ 27-7 loss to the Broncos in the preseason opener Friday night offered a glimpse at a vast majority of the team’s roster.
    — Daniel Flick, AJC.com, 15 Aug. 2026
  • General manager Omar Khan has made a concerted effort to build through the trenches on offense and defense.
    — Mike DeFabo, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of effort
Noun
  • Blistering heat has also raised demand for air conditioning, driving up natural gas consumption at a time when stores need to be refilled ahead of winter.
    — Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
  • He was pointed in the direction of Pablo de la Torre, who had spent time working as a conditioning coach for Spanish sides Banants and UD Almeria.
    — Andy Jones, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of conditioning
Noun
  • Mateychuk is an excellent skater, with clear NHL edge work and speed to be able to skate pucks up ice, evade pressure and close on checks.
    — Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • The office's own work plan called for reviewing the rail authority's change-order process by July 2026 — including a $500 million-plus construction change order settlement.
    — Julie Watts, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of work
Noun
  • Options are available for men and women, including insoles designed for casual comfort, exercise and more.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Other participants also tested UUV detection and counter-UUV technologies during the exercise.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of exercise

Browse Nearby Words

exerting
exertion
exertions
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/exertion. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on exertion

Nglish: Translation of exertion for Spanish Speakers

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