exploit
UK: ɪkˈsplɔɪt | US: ɪkˈsplɔɪt
n. 1. A notable or heroic achievement.
vt. 2. To utilize or develop (resources) for maximum benefit.
vt. 3. To take unfair advantage of a person or situation for personal gain.
exploit = ex<out> + ploit<fold>
- ex: Latin prefix meaning "out" or "from."
- ploit: Derived from Latin plicare (to fold), implying "unfolding" or "bringing out potential."
Etymology Origin:
The word "exploit" originated from Old French esploit (meaning "action" or "achievement"), which itself came from Latin explicare ("to unfold" or "to accomplish"). Over time, the meaning evolved to emphasize both heroic deeds (unfolding potential) and the darker sense of "utilizing unfairly" (unfolding resources at others' expense). The dual meaning reflects the word's journey from neutral action to morally charged contexts.
The knight's greatest exploit was slaying the dragon.
The company aims to exploit renewable energy sources.
Unethical employers sometimes exploit vulnerable workers.
His exploits in the war earned him a medal.
The software can exploit system vulnerabilities for testing purposes.