excercise

Noun

exercise (countable and uncountable, plural exercises)

1. (countable) Any activity designed to develop or hone a skill or ability.
   • The teacher told us that the next exercise is to write an essay.

   Synonyms:

   practice, practicing, drill, drilling

2. Activity intended to improve physical, or sometimes mental, strength and fitness.
   • I like to do my exercises every morning before breakfast. I do calisthenics for physical exercise, and I do crosswords for mental exercise.
   1. Such activity of physical nature, for physical fitness (plus also mental benefit).
      • Swimming is good exercise.
   2. Such activity of mental nature, for neurocognitive health.
      • Such exercises as puzzles and chess can help keep the mind sharp as we age.
3. A setting in action or practicing; employment in the proper mode of activity; exertion; application; use.
   • The law guarantees us the free exercise of our rights.
4. The performance of an office, ceremony, or duty.
   • I assisted the ailing vicar in the exercise of his parish duties.

See all 12 meanings of exercise