WordGarden.ioexercise
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛksəsˌaɪz/
US
- /ˈɛksərˌsaɪz/
Meanings
Noun
physical activity done to improve fitness or health
a practice task or drill for learning a skill
the use or application of a right, power, authority, or ability
More meaningsFewer meanings
a planned training operation, especially for military practice
Verb
to do physical activity to improve fitness or health
to use or apply a right, power, authority, or ability
Beyond the definition
"Exercise" isn't just about running laps or lifting weights! It is any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health. Think of a playful dog chasing a ball—that's exercise! But it can also be more structured, like following a yoga routine or going for a brisk walk.
The word also has older and wider uses. It can mean to practice a skill, to use something such as caution or authority, or to describe a planned activity such as a military exercise. Today, though, we most often use it for physical activity done to stay healthy. You can exercise your body, but you can also exercise your mind by solving puzzles!
The word "exercise" has evolved over time, but today it primarily refers to physical activity performed for the purpose of improving or maintaining health and fitness. It's more than just a gym workout; it encompasses any movement that gets your heart rate up and strengthens your body. Think gardening, dancing, swimming, hiking—all forms of exercise!
Originally, "exercise" could mean to practice or train, like a musician working through scales or soldiers preparing for battle. That wider meaning still exists today. You might exercise caution when crossing a busy street, which means you use care. You can exercise authority when you make use of a power or right. A large planned drill is also called an exercise, especially in the military.
However, in modern usage, "exercise" most commonly refers to physical exertion. We talk about cardiovascular exercise (like running) and strength training exercises (like lifting weights). You can even exercise your brain with mental challenges like puzzles or learning a new language!
The benefits of regular exercise are numerous—from improved heart health and weight management to reduced stress and increased energy levels. So, whether you're hitting the gym, taking a walk in the park, or simply dancing around your living room, remember that exercise is an investment in your well-being.
Examples
- 1
Daily habit
I try to get some exercise every day, even if it's just a short walk.
- 2
Fitness choice
Swimming is good exercise if you don't enjoy running.
- 3
Physical therapy
The doctor gave him a few simple exercises for his back.
- 4
Classroom practice
We have a grammar exercise at the end of each lesson.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Fitness routine
She exercises three times a week before work.
- 6
Busy schedule
This app helps people fit more exercise into a busy day.
- 7
Online safety
Parents should exercise caution when posting photos of their children online.
- Phraseexercise caution
act carefully
- 8
Formal rights
You can choose whether to exercise your right to complain.
- Patternexercise a right
use it officially or formally
- 9
Critical tone
The whole discussion felt like an exercise in blame.
- Patternan exercise in + activity/quality
something that is really just that, often in a negative way
See also
Similar
- workout
- physical activity
Contrast
- rest
- sedentary behavior
Do not confuse
- exorcise
Used with (collocations)
- get exercise
- regular exercise
- exercise routine
- aerobic exercise
Word family
- exercising
- exerciser
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- exercisenounverb
Forms
- exercisespluralnounverb
- exercising-ing formverbnoun
- exercisedpast tenseverbnoun