v.
Pronunciation: ig- ' z ə rt
Function: transitive verb
Etymology: Latin exsertus, past participle of exserere to thrust out, from ex- + serere to join ― more at SERIES
Date: circa 1630
1 a : to put forth (as strength) <the force is exert ed sideways> b : to put (oneself) into action or to tiring effort <won't have to exert himself moving the table>
2 : to bring to bear especially with sustained effort or lasting effect < exert ed a bad influence on his students>
3 : EMPLOY , WIELD < exert ed her leadership abilities intelligently>