endeavor

[ en-dev-er ]

/ ɛnˈdɛv ər /

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See synonyms for: endeavor / endeavored / endeavoring / endeavors on Thesaurus.com

verb (used without object)

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)

to attempt; try: He endeavors to keep things neat in his apartment.

Archaic. to attempt to achieve or gain.

noun

a strenuous effort; attempt.

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Also especially British, en·deav·our .

Origin of endeavor

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 for endeavor

1, 2. See try. 4. See effort.

OTHER WORDS FROM endeavor

en·deav·or·er; especially British, en·deav·our·er, nounpre·en·deav·or, noun

How to use endeavor in a sentence

Among his best-known endeavors was carving a “Wooden Boulder” and leaving it to slide over years toward the Celtic Sea.
In the galleries: Where artists engage with the earth|Mark Jenkins|December 4, 2020|Washington Post
He hopes fans will continue to support his artistic endeavors, and the foundation’s efforts to give foster youth a brighter future.
Earth, Wind & Fire’s Philip Bailey Hosts Virtual Holiday Gala|cmurray|December 3, 2020|Essence.com
More than 50 nations designate an official in the top ranks of government whose portfolio includes nurturing artistic endeavors.
The culture is ailing. It’s time for a Dr. Fauci for the arts.|Peter Marks|December 2, 2020|Washington Post
In an endeavor deal, an advertiser commits to spend a certain amount of money over the course of the year, as with a traditional upfront deal.
‘Improving your ability to cancel’: How advertisers have back-loaded flexibility into their upfront deals|Tim Peterson|December 2, 2020|Digiday

The whole world should be behind this mission and this endeavor.
China is about to collect the first moon rocks since the 1970s|Lisa Grossman|December 1, 2020|Science News
The first year after my separation was spent feverishly endeavoring exactly that.
If You Read This Book, You Will Not Get Married|Melissa Holbrook Pierson|August 11, 2012|DAILY BEAST
The sense of bearing on to the voice, or endeavoring to push the tone by any pressure whatever, should be absolutely avoided.
Expressive Voice Culture|Jessie Eldridge Southwick
I desire and am endeavoring to be on my guard respecting matters which concern his inclination and not his reason.
The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898, Volume XX, 1621-1624|Various
While endeavoring to regain their feet, some were violently thrown upon the wooden platform.
A Lost Hero|Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward and Herbert D. Ward
She was endeavoring to adjust the bunch of violets which had become loose from its fastening in her hair.
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin
With an animated countenance and a cheerful smile, she was all engrossed in endeavoring to infuse fortitude into his soul.
Madame Roland, Makers of History|John S. C. Abbott