endeavor

especially British, en·deav·our

[en-dev-er]

verb (used without object)

1. to exert oneself to do or effect something; make an effort; strive.

   We must constantly endeavor if we are to succeed.

verb (used with object)

1. to attempt; try.

   He endeavors to keep things neat in his apartment.

2. Archaic.,  to attempt to achieve or gain.

noun

1. a strenuous effort; attempt.

Other Word Forms

• endeavorer noun
• preendeavor noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of endeavor¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English endeveren, from the phrase putten in devoir “to make an effort, assume responsibility”; compare Anglo-French se mettre en deveir. See en- ¹, devoir

Synonym Study

See try. See effort.

Example Sentences

With plans to launch tens of thousands more satellites, Starship is critical to that endeavor.

From Los Angeles Times

It says that “denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, such as by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor,” is an example of antisemitism.

From Los Angeles Times

Or you can live vicariously through the bakers on “Bake Off” — whatever satisfies your culinary endeavors.

From Salon

Thus, this week, the team endeavored to make changes.

From Los Angeles Times

The demoralization of the scientific workforce represents a critical long-term threat, transforming scientific careers from noble professions into professionally risky endeavors.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aim 
• effort 
• enterprise 
• struggle 
• undertaking 
• venture