The work involved in performing an activity; exertion.
make an effort
take a lot of effort
put in effort
It took a lot of effort to find a decent-sized, fully-furnished apartment within walking distance of the office. He made a conscious effort to not appear affected by the stories in the paper.
An endeavor.
Although he didn't win any medals, Johnson's effort at the Olympics won over many fans.
A force acting on a body in the direction of its motion.
verb
(uncommon, intransitive) To make an effort.
(obsolete, transitive) To strengthen, fortify or stimulate