So from the seas exerts his radiant head The star by
whom the lights of heaven are led. --Dryden.
2. To put force, ability, or anything of the nature of an
active faculty; to put in vigorous action; to bring into
active operation; as, to exert the strength of the body,
limbs, faculties, or imagination; to exert the mind or the
voice.
3. To put forth, as the result or exercise of effort; to
bring to bear; to do or perform.
When we will has exerted an act of command on any
faculty of the soul or member of the body. --South.
{To exert one's self}, to use efforts or endeavors; to
strive; to make an attempt.