v. t.
So from the seas exerts his radiant head
The star by whom the lights of heaven are led. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
When we will has exerted an act of command on any faculty of the soul or member of the body. South. [ 1913 Webster ]
To exert one's self,
n. The act of exerting, or putting into motion or action; the active exercise of any power or faculty; an effort, esp. a laborious or perceptible effort;
a. Having power or a tendency to exert; using exertion. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. Exertion. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]