effort
UK[ˈefət]US[ˈefərt]
n
a vigorous or determined attempt
n
the physical or mental energy needed to do something
Morpheme Breakdown
ef
fort
ef
out
fort
strong
Etymology
the word 'effort' entered english in the late 15th century from middle french 'esfort', which itself derived from the old french verb 'esforcier' meaning 'to force, exert'. this french term is a compound of the latin elements 'ex-' (meaning 'out') and 'fortis' (meaning 'strong'). the core semantic logic is vividly preserved: to put forth strength from within. the modern abstract meanings of a determined attempt or the expenditure of energy directly stem from this literal idea of bringing one's inner strength out into action.
Analysis
Structure: ef (out) + fort (strong)
ef- (a form of the Latin prefix 'ex-', meaning 'out'), from latin. fort- (from latin 'fortis', meaning 'strong'), from latin.
Examples
she made a conscious effort to be more patient.
the project required a great deal of time and effort.
he lifted the heavy box without any apparent effort.