perspiration
UK: /ˌpɜː.spəˈreɪ.ʃən/ | US: /ˌpɜːr.spəˈreɪ.ʃən/
n. the process of sweating; the act of secreting liquid through the skin's pores
n. (figuratively) hard work or effort, often implying physical exertion
perspiration = per<through> + spir<breathe> + ation<noun suffix>
- per: Latin prefix meaning "through" or "thoroughly."
- spir: From Latin spirare ("to breathe"), reflecting the ancient belief that sweat was expelled through "pores" akin to breathing.
- ation: Noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word "perspiration" originates from the Latin perspirare ("to breathe through"), reflecting the historical misconception that sweat was vapor released through skin pores like breath. Over time, the term evolved to scientifically describe sweat secretion while retaining metaphorical ties to exertion (e.g., "hard work makes you sweat").
After the marathon, her face glistened with perspiration.
The doctor explained that perspiration helps regulate body temperature.
His success was the result of years of quiet perspiration.
The humid weather caused excessive perspiration even with minimal activity.
She wiped the perspiration from her brow and continued working.