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.

QUIZ

QUIZ YOURSELF ON "IS" VS. "ARE"

"Is" it time for a new quiz? "Are" you ready? Then prove your excellent skills on using "is" vs. "are."

Question 1 of 7

IS and ARE are both forms of which verb?

have

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

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

It is the dramatic impulse of childhood endeavouring to bring life into the dulness of the serious hours.
Children's Ways|James Sully
That I am not endeavouring to recall Anne's claims on you in saying this, I am sure you are perfectly aware, knowing me as you do.
Elster's Folly|Mrs. Henry Wood
Hartledon sent his thoughts back, endeavouring to recollect what could have given rise to this charge.
Elster's Folly|Mrs. Henry Wood
He had some sinister motive in thus endeavouring to plant seeds of suspicion within her mind.
The Doctor of Pimlico|William Le Queux

A river such as the Mississippi is endlessly endeavouring to bear its burden to the sea.
Outlines of the Earth's History|Nathaniel Southgate Shaler