n.
- physical activity carried out for the sake of health and fitness.
- an activity carried out for a specific purpose:
an exercise in public relations.
▸a task set to practise or test a skill.
▸a military drill or training manoeuvre.
- the application of a faculty, right, or process:
the exercise of authority.
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(exercises)
N. Amer. ceremonies.
v.
- use or apply (a faculty, right, or process).
- take or subject to physical exercise.
- worry or perplex.
Derivative
- exercisable adj.
- exerciser n.
Etymology
ME: via OFr. from L. exercitium, from exercere ‘keep busy, practise’.