Definition of: exercise

(ek′sər·sīz) v. ·cised, ·cis·ing v.t.
1. To subject to drills, systematic movements, etc., so as to train or develop (troops, muscles, the mind, etc.).
2. To make use of; employ: to exercise caution or a right.
3. To perform or execute, as the duties of an office.
4. To wield; exert, as influence or authority.
5. To do habitually; make a habit of: used reflexively or in the passive: to be exercised in good works.
6. To occupy the mind of; especially, to make anxious; worry.
—v.i.
7. To take exercise.
8. To undergo training. [<noun]
—noun
1. A putting into use, action, or practice.
2. Activity for health, development, or training.
3. An act of speaking, reading, etc., as at a school exhibition or religious meeting: usually in the plural.
4. An act of worship; a religious service.
5. A lesson assigned to a student; also, the written or oral fulfilment of that assignment. [<OF exercice <L exercitium <exercere practice <ex- out, away + arcere restrain]
—ex′er·cis′a·ble adjective Synonyms (noun): act, action, activity, application, employment, exertion, occupation, operation, performance, practice, use. See ACT, PRACTICE. Antonyms: idleness, inaction, inactivity, relaxation, rest.