Perspire
/pərˈspaɪər/
Meaning & Definition
verb
to emit a fluid from the pores of the skin, typically as a result of heat or physical exertion.
She began to perspire after running for several miles.
to sweat.
He tends to perspire heavily during intense workout sessions.
to become visible or apparent through effort; to show signs of stress or anxiety.
After presenting his project, he could feel himself starting to perspire from the pressure.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Latin 'perspirare', from 'per-' meaning 'through' + 'spirare' meaning 'breathe'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
perspire under pressure
to sweat due to stress or anxiety
perspiring palms
to have sweaty hands, often due to nervousness
perspire like a fountain
to sweat a lot, similar to a fountain's water flow
Related Words
sweat
the fluid that is excreted through the skin
sweating
the process of producing perspiration
moisture
a small amount of liquid, often water, present in the air or on a surface
Slang Meanings
to sweat it out
I'm sweating it out waiting for the test results.
break a sweat
He didn't even break a sweat while running the marathon.