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

'exertionem' transformed into the French word 'exertion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exertion' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to put forth or apply,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the act of applying effort or energy.'