endeavor

[ en-dev-er ]

/ ɛnˈdɛv ər /

SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR endeavor 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.

Nearby words

endbrain, endcap, endear, endearing, endearment, endeavor, endeavour, endecott, endecott, john, endemic, endemic hematuria

Also especially British, en·deav·our.

Origin of endeavor

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

SYNONYMS FOR endeavor

1, 2 See try.

4 See effort.

SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR endeavor ON THESAURUS.COM

Related forms

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

Examples from the Web for endeavoring

Freeman is now endeavoring to raise money to make the purchase.
The Narrative of Lunsford Lane, Formerly of Raleigh, N.C.|Lunsford Lane
"I'll teach you how if you want to learn," said Elizabeth, endeavoring to show a return of the kindly offer.
The Girl from Montana|Grace Livingston Hill
Some citizens were shot on opening the doors, others in endeavoring to escape.
New York Times Current History; The European War, Vol 2, No. 3, June, 1915|Various
With this recognized as a fact, was he justified in endeavoring to win Naida Gillis for himself?
Bob Hampton of Placer|Randall Parrish

She flashed her tempting glance up into the man's face, and Brown stamped his feet nervously, endeavoring to appear stern.
Beth Norvell|Randall Parrish