Endeavor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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endeavor

[ɪnˈdɛvər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

An attempt to achieve a goal, especially a difficult one.

Synonyms

attempt, effort, undertaking.

Examples of usage

  • He made a great endeavor to finish the project on time.
  • The company's endeavors to expand internationally were successful.
Context #2 | Verb

business

To try hard to do or achieve something.

Synonyms

aim, attempt, strive.

Examples of usage

  • She endeavored to learn a new language in her spare time.
  • The team endeavored to improve customer satisfaction levels.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • William Shakespeare used the concept of endeavor in his works, highlighting the human spirit's pursuit of goals.
  • In modern literature, many protagonists go on journeys of endeavor, showcasing growth through effort and determination.
  • The phrase 'noble endeavor' is often seen in stories, representing quests that require courage and hard work.

Science

  • In scientific research, an endeavor often refers to the pursuit of knowledge through experiments, indicating a systematic effort.
  • Space missions are monumental endeavors, requiring extensive planning and collaboration among astronauts and scientists.
  • The process of developing new technologies is seen as an endeavor, proving how effort can lead to innovation.

Psychology

  • Engaging in endeavors can significantly boost self-esteem, as achieving goals reinforces a positive self-image.
  • The concept of 'growth mindset' suggests that seeing challenges as endeavors can help people embrace learning and resilience.
  • Studies show that setting endeavor-based goals (specific, measurable) leads to higher success rates in personal and professional life.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies depict characters embarking on personal endeavors, like finding love, achieving dreams, or overcoming hardships.
  • The phrase 'endless endeavor' is often used in songs and poetry to describe perpetual struggle and hope.
  • Reality shows often revolve around contestants' endeavors to win challenges, making for engaging narratives of ambition.

Origin of 'endeavor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'endevoir', meaning 'to obligate' or 'to make an effort'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Latin 'debere', meaning 'to owe', indicating a sense of responsibility in taking action.
  • The term began to be used in English around the late 14th century, reflecting a cultural emphasis on effort and ambition.

The word 'endeavor' originated from the Middle English word 'endeveren', which came from the Anglo-French word 'en devoir', meaning 'to make an effort'. The term has been in use since the late 14th century, evolving to its current meaning of striving towards a goal or making a serious attempt.


See also: end, endemic, ending, endless, endlessly, endpoint, unending.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,419 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.