"unreasonable or extravagant amplification," 1560s, from Latin exaggerationem (nominative exaggeratio) "elevation, exaltation" (figurative), noun of action from past-participle stem of exaggerare "amplify, magnify," literally "heap up" (see exaggerate).
the dance involved a deliberate exaggeration of his awkwardness
exaction
exactitude
exactly
exactness
exaggerate
exaggeration
exalt
exaltation
exam
examination
examine