perspiration

noun

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.

1. 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.”

2. Synonym of hard work.

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

3. Sweat (fluid).

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