To put, apply, or exert (one's self) to do a thing: used reflexively.To attempt to gain; try to effect; strive to achieve or attain; strive after.To labor or exert one's self to do or effect something; strive; try; make an effort: followed by an infinitive.To direct one's efforts or labor toward some object or end; fix one's course; aim: with at, for, or after.Synonyms Undertake, Endeavor, etc. (see attempt); to seek, aim, struggle.n. An effort; an essay; an attempt; an exertion of physical or mental powers toward the attainment of an object.n. Synonyms Struggle, trial.