'exert' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exserere,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'serere' meant 'to join or bind.'

'exserere' transformed into the French word 'exercer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exert' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to put forth or bring out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to apply or bring to bear.'