En"ter*prise (?), n. [F. enterprise, fr. entreprendre to undertake; entre between (L. inter) + prendre to take. See Inter, and Emprise.]
1.
That which is undertaken; something attempted to be performed; a work projected which involves activity, courage, energy, and the like; a bold, arduous, or hazardous attempt; an undertaking; as, a manly enterprise; a warlike enterprise.
Shak.
Their hands can not perform their enterprise.
Job v. 12.
2.
Willingness or eagerness to engage in labor which requires boldness, promptness, energy, and like qualities; as, a man of great enterprise.
© Webster 1913.
En"ter*prise, v. t.
1.
To undertake; to begin and attempt to perform; to venture upon.
[R.]
The business must be enterprised this night.
Dryden.
What would I not renounce or enterprise for you!
T. Otway.
2.
To treat with hospitality; to entertain.
[Obs.]
Him at the threshold met, and well did enterprise.
Spenser.
© Webster 1913.
En"ter*prise, v. i.
To undertake an enterprise, or something hazardous or difficult.
[R.]
Pope.
© Webster 1913.