verb
exert
ig-ZERT/ɪɡˈzɜːrt/
To put power or effort into use.
The adult exerts considerable force to push the heavy wooden crate.
Etymology
The combination of “out” and serere produced a verb meaning “thrust out” or “put forth.” Exert shifted from physically putting something forth to putting effort, force, or influence into use.
In context
I knew the destroyer of my family and that I required him to exert his whole Authority for the apprehension of the murderer
More examples
- Parents exert a strong influence on their children's habits.
- The manager exerts her authority to settle the dispute.
- Don't exert yourself too much in this heat.
Forms
exert · exerts · exerted · exerting
exertion noun — The use of physical or mental effort.