Definition of: exert

(ig·zûrt′) v.t.
1. To put forth or put in action, as strength, force, or faculty; bring into strong or vigorous action.
2. Obs. To push or thrust forth.
—to exert oneself To put forth effort. [<L exertus, var. of exsertus, pp. of exserere thrust out <ex- out + serere bind]
—ex·er′tive adjective