exploit 1 of 2

Definition of exploitnext

exploit

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun exploit differ from other similar words?

The words achievement and feat are common synonyms of exploit. While all three words mean "a remarkable deed," exploit suggests an adventurous or heroic act.

his exploits as a spy

When could achievement be used to replace exploit?

In some situations, the words achievement and exploit are roughly equivalent. However, achievement implies hard-won success in the face of difficulty or opposition.

her achievements as a chemist

When is it sensible to use feat instead of exploit?

The words feat and exploit are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, feat implies strength or dexterity or daring.

an acrobatic feat

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of exploit
Verb
The philosopher Raphaël Millière offered an example of how to exploit this vulnerability. Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026 At the same time, the regime shamelessly exploits international sporting events to legitimize itself and whitewash its crimes. Benjamin Weinthal, FOXNews.com, 7 Feb. 2026
Noun
Reaching an impressive 52 feet, the limestone structure is covered in Parian marble, with sculptural relief panels that tell the story of the emperor’s life and military exploits. Erica Firpo, Travel + Leisure, 8 Feb. 2026 Everybody knows about Mike Vrabel’s exploits as a player. Chad Graff, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exploit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exploit
Verb
  • Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program and over Tehran's crackdown on nationwide protests.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Discoverability, most people just use algorithms to find music nowadays.
    Ben Smith, semafor.com, 14 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • His belief that a conspiratorial coterie of people is manipulating American policy.
    David Remnick, New Yorker, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Certain brands of that vintage can be manipulated in ways that later models can’t.
    Manuel Mendoza, Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • To review or object to instances where our partners assert a legitimate interest in utilizing your data, please visit our vendors page.
    Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 13 Feb. 2026
  • In the costuming department, the show utilized more than 1,000 yards of fabric and 1/2 mile of fringe with 90 types of fabrics represented.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Until Farquharson's feat, Erin Hamlin was the last American to earn a bronze medal, doing so at the 2014 Sochi Games.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Instead of people remembering Monday night’s tilt for the Hornets’ chance to equal a feat that had only been accomplished once in franchise history, a third-quarter scrum and the ejection of coach Charles Lee headlined their 110-104 defeat to the Detroit Pistons at Spectrum Center.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • For this Alaskan, the start of summer means one thing—time to plan a winter visit.
    Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Consider introducing yourself to a neighbor, because your optimism is ideally positioned to start things off on the right foot.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 11 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Cannon established Coppermark and almost immediately reached out to Stephanie Lee, a roofing contractor and independent adjuster with extensive experience in hail, wind, and tornado damage.
    J.C. Hallman, Oklahoman, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Can our experiences as babies still be felt today?
    Daisy Jones, Vogue, 10 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • By leveraging light to enhance oxygen electrochemistry, the approach reduces energy losses and extends device lifetime without relying on precious metals.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Each event builds in attendance and attention, leveraging their prestige to bring together global namesakes and the best-of-the-best in exclusive marquee matches.
    Bradenton Herald Staff Reports, Miami Herald, 6 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Eight of these units were connected to each other and a linear actuator was installed at one end of the line to apply the force needed to activate the elastocaloric effect.
    IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Regardless of the type, apply the fertilizer in late winter to prepare your tree for the upcoming growing season.
    Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Exploit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/exploit. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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