endeavor

[ en-dev-er ]

/ ɛnˈdɛv ər /

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.

Words nearby endeavor

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

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.

OTHER WORDS FROM endeavor

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

Examples from the Web for endeavouring

“You quite enlighten me on the subject,” observed Oriel Porphyry, endeavouring to suppress a laugh.
Lady Eureka, v. 2 (of 3)|Robert Folkestone Williams
Some of them were endeavouring to escape into the woods, and others were hurrying to their canoes.
Travels in North America, From Modern Writers|William Bingley
I have been these six years endeavouring to prevail on you to pay your debts, replied the friend.
Joe Miller's Jests, With Copious Additions|Various
What was his purpose in endeavouring to deceive Mrs. Preedy?
Great Porter Square, v. 1|Benjamin Leopold Farjeon

She had been shot in the breast in two places, and the Abbé Aubert was endeavouring to staunch the blood with his handkerchief.
The World's Greatest Books, Vol VII|Various