Definition of EXERCISE

1

a : the act of bringing into play or realizing in action : use the exercise of self-control b : the discharge of an official function or professional occupation exercise of his judicial duties c : the act or an instance of carrying out the terms of an agreement (such as an option) —often used attributively an option’s exercise price

2

a

: regular or repeated use of a faculty or bodily organ

b : bodily exertion for the sake of developing and maintaining physical fitness trying to get more exercise

3

: something performed or practiced in order to develop, improve, or display a specific capability or skill

4

: a performance or activity having a strongly marked secondary or ulterior aspect party politics has always been an exercise in compromise—H. S. Ashmore

5

a : a maneuver, operation, or drill carried out for training and discipline b exercises plural : a program including speeches, announcements of awards and honors, and various traditional practices of secular or religious character

transitive verb

1

a : to make effective in action : use didn’t exercise good judgment b : to bring to bear : exert c : to implement the terms of

2

a : to use repeatedly in order to strengthen or develop b : to train by drills and maneuvers

3

a

: to engage the attention and effort of

b : to cause anxiety, alarm, or indignation in the issues exercising voters this year Last Updated: 14 Jan 2023 – Updated example sentences

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Merriam-Webster unabridged