Definition of 'essay'

Noun

1. an analytic or interpretive literary composition
2. a tentative attempt

Verb

1. make an effort or attempt; "He tried to shake off his fears"; "The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps"; "The police attempted to stop the thief"; "He sought to improve himself"; "She always seeks to do good in the world"
      Synonyms: try seek attempt assay
2. put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to; "This approach has been tried with good results"; "Test this recipe"
      Synonyms: test prove try try out examine

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