Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
ENDEAVOR
I. verb (endeavored; endeavoring) see: devoir
Date: 15th century
transitive verb to strive to achieve or reach, to attempt (as the fulfillment of an obligation) by exertion of effort , intransitive verb to work with set purpose, see: attempt
II. noun
Date: 15th century
serious determined effort, activity directed toward a goal ; enterprise