effort

noun

ef·​fort ˈe-fərt 

-ˌfȯrt

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

Synonyms of effort

• work
• exertion
• expenditure
• pains
• sweat

Examples of effort in a Sentence

He put a lot of effort into finishing the project on time.

It wasn't easy, but it was worth the effort.

We need to expend more effort.

The job will require a great deal of time and effort.

Our success is due to the combined efforts of many people.

Her efforts were rewarded with a new contract.

He lost the campaign despite the best efforts of his supporters.

Even though they didn't win, the team made a good effort.

Her early efforts at writing a novel were awkward.

Despite my best efforts, I never found out who she was.

Recent Examples on the Web

Russian drones targeted roadside gas stations in Kyiv for a second straight day Friday, as Moscow broadened its air war in what Ukrainian officials say is an effort to rattle civilians. — Arkansas Online, 12 Sep. 2026

Eco effort The Rosewood group has a green initiative that includes energy conservation, prioritizing sustainability, and embracing a sense of place, but specifics about the Vienna hotel weren’t apparent. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Sep. 2026

James Zadroga was an NYPD officer who responded to recovery efforts at ground zero and died in 2006 of a respiratory disease. — ABC News, 11 Sep. 2026

Now that the effort to dilute Kansas City’s voting power has been paused by the courts, most voters in KC proper, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Grandview and Gladstone remain residents of the 5th Congressional District. — Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing effort

• counter-effort
• make every effort
• spare no effort
• team effort
• war effort
• without effort

Rhymes for effort

• lefort
• roquefort

Kids Definition

effort

noun

ef·​fort ˈef-ərt 

-ˌȯrt

1

: hard work of mind or body

requires time and effort

2

: a serious attempt : try

made a good effort

3

: something produced by work

this painting was one of my best efforts

4

: the force applied to a simple machine (as a lever) in contrast to the force applied by it against a load