Meaning & Definition of word "Perspire"

Perspire

/pərˈspaɪər/

verb:

  • 1. to emit a fluid from the pores of the skin, typically as a result of heat or physical exertion.
    • Example: She began to perspire after running for several miles.
  • 2. to sweat.
    • Example: He tends to perspire heavily during intense workout sessions.
  • 3. to become visible or apparent through effort; to show signs of stress or anxiety.
    • Example: 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 of perspire

Meaning: to sweat it out

Example Sentence: I'm sweating it out waiting for the test results.

Meaning: break a sweat

Example Sentence: He didn't even break a sweat while running the marathon.