From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Effort \Ef"fort\, n. [F. effort, OF. esfort, for esfors, esforz,
fr. esforcier. See Efforce.]
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.
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We prize the stronger effort of his power. --Pope.
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2. (Mech.) A force acting on a body in the direction of its
motion. --Rankine.
Syn: Endeavor; exertion; struggle; strain; straining;
attempt; trial; essay. See Attempt.
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From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Effort \Ef"fort\, v. t.
To stimulate. [Obs.] "He efforted his spirits." --Fuller.
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