perspire

[ per-spahyuhr ]

verb (used without object)

, per·spired, per·spir·ing.

1. to secrete a salty, watery fluid from the sweat glands of the skin, especially when very warm as a result of strenuous exertion; sweat.

verb (used with object)

, per·spired, per·spir·ing.

1. to emit through pores; exude.

perspire

/ pəˈspaɪə /

verb

1. to secrete or exude (perspiration) through the pores of the skin

Derived Forms

• perˈspiringly, adverb

Other Words From

• per·spira·bili·ty noun
• per·spira·ble adjective
• per·spiring·ly adverb
• per·spiry adjective
• unper·spired adjective
• unper·spiring adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of perspire¹

1640–50; < Latin perspīrāre to blow constantly (said of the wind), breathe through; in New Latin: to sweat imperceptibly. See per-, inspire

Word History and Origins

Origin of perspire¹

C17: from Latin perspīrāre to blow, from per- (through) + spīrāre to breathe; compare inspire

Example Sentences

Then he mopped his perspiring brow with me.

From Literature

Your nose will perspire and you will feel compelled to touch it.

From New York Times

Still he battled on against the Dutch - limping, perspiring and also taking one stomach-churning blow where no man wants to be hit as he went.

From BBC

Scientists believe that if you perspire more during the later questions, then you are lying.

From Encyclopedia.com

When you perspire, the sweat on your skin can pull heat from your body as it evaporates.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• secrete