perspiration

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the process of the sweat glands of the skin secreting a salty fluid

   perspiration is a homeostatic process

2. 2
   noun

   The action or process of perspiring.

   The Cauſe may be Want of Perſpiration : For Much of the Matter of Haire, in the other Parts of the Body, goeth forth by Inſenſible Perſpiration ; And beſides, the Skull being of a more ſolide Subſtance, nouriſheth and aſſimilateth leſſe, and excerneth more.

3. 3
   noun

   Synonym of hard work.

   Genius is 1 per cent. inspiration and 99 per cent. perspiration.

4. 4
   noun

   Sweat (fluid).

   Passing his hand across his forehead he withdrew it, wet with drops of perspiration.

5. 5
   noun

   salty fluid secreted by sweat glands

Etymology

Borrowed from late Middle French perspiration, from perspirer (“perspire”), from Latin perspirare (“to blow or breathe constantly”), from per (“through”) + spirare (“to breathe, blow”). Morphologically perspire + -ation.