Skip to definition.
Get the FREE one-click dictionary software for Windows or the iPhone/iPad and Android apps


Noun: exercise  'ek-su(r),sIz
  1. The activity of exerting your muscles in various ways to keep fit
    "the doctor recommended regular exercise";
    - exercising, physical exercise, physical exertion, workout
     
  2. The act of using
    - use, usage, utilization, utilisation [Brit], employment
     
  3. Systematic training by multiple repetitions
    "exercise makes perfect";
    - practice, drill, practice session, recitation
     
  4. A task performed or problem solved in order to develop skill or understanding
    - example
     
  5. (usually plural) a ceremony that involves processions and speeches
    "academic exercises"
     
  6. An action, often used negatively and without consequences
    "an exercise in futility"; "an exercise in cheap talk"
Verb: exercise  'ek-su(r),sIz
  1. Put to use
    "exercise one's power or influence";
    - exert
     
  2. Carry out, engage in (as of jobs and professions)
    "exercise law";
    - practice [N. Amer], practise [Brit, Cdn], do
     
  3. Give a workout to
    "Some parents exercise their infants"; "this puzzle will exercise your mind";
    - work, work out
     
  4. Do physical exercise
    "She exercises in the gym every day";
    - work out
     
  5. Learn by repetition
    - drill, practice [N. Amer], practise [Brit, Cdn]

Derived forms: exercises, exercising, exercised

Type of: action, activity, apply, ceremonial, ceremonial occasion, ceremony, effort, elbow grease, employ, exertion, grooming, learn, lesson, observance, preparation, put to work, read, study, sweat [informal], take, training, travail [literary], use, utilise [Brit], utilize, work

Encyclopedia: Exercise