n.

1. earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something;
   effort, endeavor, endeavour, try
   
   • made an effort to cover all the reading material
   • wished him luck in his endeavor
   • she gave it a good try
2. the act of attacking;
   attack
   
   • attacks on women increased last year
   • they made an attempt on his life

v.

1. make an effort or attempt;
   try, seek, essay, assay
   
   • He tried to shake off his fears
   • The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps
   • The police attempted to stop the thief
   • He sought to improve himself
   • She always seeks to do good in the world
2. enter upon an activity or enterprise;
   undertake, set about