embark

American  

[em-bahrk] / ɛmˈbɑrk /

verb (used without object)

1. to board a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, as for a journey.

2. to start an enterprise, business, etc.

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verb (used with object)

1. to put or receive on board a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle.

2. to involve (someone) in an enterprise.

3. to venture or invest (something) in an enterprise.

embark British  

/ ɛmˈbɑːk /

verb

1. to board (a ship or aircraft)

2. (intr; usually foll by on or upon) to commence or engage (in) a new project, venture, etc

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Other Word Forms

• embarkation noun
• embarkment noun
• reembark verb

Etymology

Origin of embark

First recorded in 1540–50; from Middle French embarquer, from Spanish embarcar; from em- em- ¹ + -barcar, verb derivative of barca bark ³

Example Sentences

It wasn’t until she was almost 40 that she embarked on what became a singular career in the entertainment industry.

From The Wall Street Journal

The company is embarking on a turnaround under Hill, who assumed the top role in October 2024.

From Barron's

China released video footage that it said was of military aircraft embarking on exercises on Monday.

From The Wall Street Journal

Far from winding down, Morris embarked on what would be an illustrious post-playing career, first as technical coaching director with the ECB.

From BBC

The country is now embarking on an expensive building boom, sparking outrage at unsightly transmission towers and the potential harm to bats, dormice and other local wildlife.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• commence
• enter
• launch