Main Entry: ef·fort

Pronunciation: \ˈe-fərt, -ˌfȯrt\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle French, from Old French esforz, esfort, from esforcier to force, from ex- + forcier to force

Date: 15th century

1 : conscious exertion of power : hard work <a job requiring time and effort>
2 : a serious attempt : try <making an effort to reduce costs>
3 : something produced by exertion or trying <the novel was her most ambitious effort>
4 : effective force as distinguished from the possible resistance called into action by such a force
5 : the total work done to achieve a particular end <the war effort>