WordGarden.ioendeavor
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛndˈɛvə/
US
- /ɪnˈdɛvər/
Meanings
Noun
a serious attempt or undertaking
Verb
to try hard to do something
Beyond the definition
This word is about trying hard and giving real effort. As a verb, it means to try seriously to do something, often something difficult or important. As a noun, it means the effort itself or a project that asks a lot from you. A scientist may endeavor to find a cure, and that work can also be called an endeavor. The word has a slightly formal tone, but the idea is simple: a steady, determined attempt, even when the road is not easy.
To endeavor means to try earnestly or diligently to achieve something; to make a serious and sustained effort. It's more than simply attempting—it suggests a commitment that goes beyond casual interest. Think of explorers embarking on a perilous journey, artists dedicating years to perfecting their craft, or activists tirelessly working for social change—these are all examples of endeavors.
The word stems from the Old French phrase en devoir, meaning "in duty." This linguistic origin suggests that an endeavor is more than a passing whim; it is something you make your duty to see through. It carries a slightly formal and elevated tone, often used in contexts where significant effort and purpose are involved. You might read about a "peace endeavor" to resolve conflict or an "artistic endeavor" that pushes creative boundaries.
While you can endeavor to do something (verb), the word also exists as a noun: "Her latest endeavor was a complete success." This refers to the undertaking itself—the project, task, or attempt. It's often used when describing ambitious, challenging, or meaningful projects.
So, if someone is truly dedicated to achieving a goal, facing challenges with determination and perseverance, they are engaged in an endeavor—a purposeful and earnest striving for something greater.
Examples
- 1
Business risk
Starting a business from scratch is a risky endeavor.
- 2
Teaching
For her, teaching in a small rural school was a worthwhile endeavor.
- 3
Arts program
The museum supports artistic endeavors by local students.
- Phraseartistic endeavors
artistic projects or activities
- 4
Court testimony
She endeavored to stay calm while answering the judge's questions.
- Usageendeavor to do something
try hard to do it; formal
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Traffic policy
The city launched the program in an endeavor to reduce traffic downtown.
- Phrasein an endeavor to
in an effort to
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- a worthwhile endeavor
- a challenging endeavor
- scientific endeavor
- human endeavor
Word family
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Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- endeavornounverb
Forms
- endeavorspluralnounverb
- endeavoredpast tenseverbnoun
- endeavoring-ing formverbnoun