undertake

verb

un·​der·​take ˌən-dər-ˈtāk 

undertook ˌən-dər-ˈtu̇k  ; undertaken ˌən-dər-ˈtā-kən  ; undertaking

transitive verb

1

: to take upon oneself : set about : attempt

undertake a task

undertake to learn to swim

2

: to put oneself under obligation to perform

also : to accept as a charge or responsibility

the lawyer who undertook the case

3

: guarantee, promise

readily undertook that the letter should be securely conveyed

—Sir Walter Scott

intransitive verb

archaic : to give surety or assume responsibility

Synonyms

• accept
• assume
• bear
• shoulder
• take over

Examples of undertake in a Sentence

He's undertaking a thorough search.

The researchers undertook a series of studies.

Recent Examples on the Web

Dawn Aerospace Dawn has undertaken more than 50 flight tests using jet and rocket engines since 2021, and the latest certification removes the training wheels, so to speak, to unlock unlimited speed at altitudes up to 80,000 ft (~24,385 m). —Paul Ridden, New Atlas, 12 July 2024

The Skyline Drive is best undertaken with plenty of time to stop and enjoy the view. —Madeline Weinfield, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2024

Organizers say the new rail line will be the largest single public infrastructure project ever undertaken in Santa Clara County. —Joe Edwards, Newsweek, 10 July 2024

Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law. —Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

undertake

verb

un·​der·​take ˌən-dər-ˈtāk 

undertook -ˈtu̇k  ; undertaken -ˈtā-kən  ; undertaking

1

: to take upon oneself as a task : enter upon

undertake a journey

2

: to take on as a duty : agree, contract

undertake to deliver a package