Endeavouring Meaning: Definition and Examples

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endeavouring

[ΙͺnˈdΙ›vΙ™rΙͺΕ‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

effort to achieve

Endeavouring refers to the act of making a serious effort or attempt to achieve something. It often implies a determined pursuit of a goal, typically requiring hard work and perseverance.

Synonyms

attempting, striving, trying, working.

Examples of usage

  • She is endeavouring to complete her thesis before the deadline.
  • They are endeavouring to improve community services.
  • He is endeavouring to learn a new language.

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • The term gained prominence in English literature during the 14th century, reflecting the cultural value placed on hard work.
  • In a famous speech, Winston Churchill used a similar concept to inspire resilience during World War II.

Literature

  • Numerous writers, including Shakespeare, often invoke the idea of 'endeavouring' in their works to showcase human determination.
  • In 'The Canterbury Tales', characters are depicted as endeavouring on pilgrimages, representing a journey of effort and discovery.

Psychology

  • Effortful pursuits generally lead to stronger feelings of accomplishment and fulfillment, boosting overall well-being.
  • Studies show that setting challenging goals can greatly increase one's motivation to keep endeavouring in personal and professional life.

Pop Culture

  • Popular films often highlight characters who succeed through relentless endeavour, reinforcing the heroic narrative.
  • Songs and poems frequently celebrate the theme of striving, using 'endeavouring' as a metaphor for life’s struggles.

Origin of 'endeavouring'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'endever', meaning 'to put in effort' or 'to strive'.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'debere', which means 'to owe', suggesting a sense of obligation to work hard.

The word 'endeavour' is derived from the Old French word 'endeorfer' which means to put oneself in a condition to make an effort. The term entered the English language in the late Middle Ages and has evolved over time. It reflects human ambition and the inherent desire to achieve and accomplish various tasks and goals. 'Endeavour' has been notably used in literature and various forms of communication to denote a strong commitment towards a particular objective, highlighting the struggles and dedication involved in the pursuit of success. Its usage has expanded into various contexts, from personal achievements to collaborative efforts, making it a versatile term in the English lexicon.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,120, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.