What is the meaning of attempt?

noun

• Earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something.
  • usage: "made an effort to cover all the reading material"; "wished him luck in his endeavor"; "she gave it a good try"
  • synonyms: effort, endeavor, endeavour, try
• The act of attacking.
  • usage: "attacks on women increased last year"; "they made an attempt on his life"
  • synonyms: attack

verb

• Make an effort or attempt.
  • usage: "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, essay, assay
• Enter upon an activity or enterprise.
  • synonyms: undertake, set about