n.

1. the activity of exerting your muscles in various ways to keep fit;
   exercising, physical exercise, physical exertion, workout
   
   • the doctor recommended regular exercise
   • he did some exercising
   • the physical exertion required by his work kept him fit
2. the act of using;
   use, usage, utilization, utilisation, employment
   
   • he warned against the use of narcotic drugs
   • skilled in the utilization of computers
3. systematic training by multiple repetitions;
   practice, drill, practice session, recitation
   
   • practice makes perfect
4. a task performed or problem solved in order to develop skill or understanding;
   example
   
   • you must work the examples at the end of each chapter in the textbook
5. (usually plural) a ceremony that involves processions and speeches
   
   • academic exercises

v.

1. put to use;
   exert
   
   • exert one's power or influence
2. carry out or practice; as of jobs and professions;
   practice, practise, do
   
   • practice law
3. give a workout to;
   work, work out
   
   • Some parents exercise their infants
   • My personal trainer works me hard
   • work one's muscles
4. do physical exercise;
   work out
   
   • She works out in the gym every day
5. learn by repetition;
   drill, practice, practise
   
   • We drilled French verbs every day
   • Pianists practice scales