exhaust
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪɡˈzɔst/
KK: /ɪɡˈzɔst/
intransitive verb
Definition
To release or let out something, such as steam or gas, into the air.
Example
The engine exhausts smoke when it runs.
Tense Forms
Past: exhausted
Past Participle: exhausted
Conversation
Did you hear that noise from the engine?
Yeah, it sounds like the steam is starting to exhaust through the valve.
I hope it doesn't mean there's a problem.
Me too! We should check it out just to be safe.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vent
emit
release
Antonyms
absorb
retain
collect
noun
Definition
A pipe or system that allows waste gases or air to escape, especially from an engine or a building.
Example
The car's exhaust was emitting a lot of smoke after the long drive.
Conversation
Did you notice how bad the exhaust smells from that old car?
Yeah, it's pretty terrible! I can't believe it's still running.
Right? They really need to fix that exhaust system soon.
transitive verb
Definition
To use up all of something or to make someone very tired by using all their energy or resources.
Example
The long hike exhausted me by the time we reached the top of the mountain.
Tense Forms
Past: exhausted
Past Participle: exhausted
Conversation
I think we really exhaust our options when planning the trip.
Yeah, we went through every possible destination.
I didn't expect to exhaust so many ideas in one evening.
Root Explanation
Exhaust → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "haustus" (from "haurire", meaning to draw or to drink). The word describes the act of drawing out or using up resources, leading to depletion.
Memory Tip
Think of 'drawing out' ('haustus') something completely 'out' ('ex-') — that's why exhaust means to use up all resources.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.