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

Derived Forms

• exˈertive, adjective
• exˈertion, noun

Other Words From

• ex·ertive adjective
• nonex·ertive adjective
• super·ex·ert verb (used with object)
• unex·erted adjective
• well-ex·erted 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

Carr explained, "The purpose of the rule is to avoid exactly this type of biased and partisan conduct – a licensed broadcaster using the public airwaves to exert its influence for one candidate on the eve of an election. Unless the broadcaster offered Equal Time to other qualifying campaigns."

From Salon

The federal policy requires US broadcasters to treat political candidates equally in terms of air time, and Mr Carr wrote on X that its purpose is "to avoid exactly this type of biased and partisan conduct - a licensed broadcaster using the public airwaves to exert its influence for one candidate on the eve of an election".

From BBC

“While it’s critical to develop sustainable approaches when addressing our plastic waste stream, we should exert some caution and ensure we’re not contributing to additional exposures to these hazardous chemicals in recycled materials.”

From Salon

An experimenter obsessed with special effects and the dramatic power they can exert in cinema, Zemeckis is always trying something new, especially with motion-capture technology.

From Los Angeles Times

But, according to a 2021 report by consulting firm Ramona Strategies, volunteers also exert managerial authority that it advised should be reserved for professional staff.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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