1. (v. t.) To make a strenuous effort; to emit; to push out\.

2. (v. t.) To put force, ability, or anything of the nature of an active faculty; to put in vigorous action; to bring into active operation; as, to exert the strength of the body, limbs, faculties, or imagination; to exert the mind or the voice.

3. (v. t.) To put forth, as the result or exercise of effort; to bring to bear; to do or perform.

apply attempt bring into play bring to bear bust a gut do with employ endeavor exercise expend go all out handle make an effort make use of manage manipulate operate play ply practice push put forth put out strain strive struggle throw toil try use utilize wield work