D defs.my
Entry 3 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913

Effort

/ĕf'-ẽrt/ · Ef·fort · IPA /ˈɛf.ɚt/
01 n. An exertion of strength or power, whether physical or mental, in performing an act or aiming at an object; more or less strenuous endeavor;…
  1. 1.
    An exertion of strength or power, whether physical or mental, in performing an act or aiming at an object; more or less strenuous endeavor; struggle directed to the accomplishment of an object; as, an effort to scale a wall.
    “We prize the stronger effort of his power.” Pope.
  2. 2.
    A force acting on a body in the direction of its motion.(Mech.)
02 v. t. To stimulate.
  1. 1.
    To stimulate.[Obs.]