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. [ 1913 Webster ]

Their hands can not perform their enterprise. Job v. 12. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Willingness or eagerness to engage in labor which requires boldness, promptness, energy, and like qualities; as, a man of great enterprise. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. 1. To undertake; to begin and attempt to perform; to venture upon. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

The business must be enterprised this night. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

What would I not renounce or enterprise for you! T. Otway. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To treat with hospitality; to entertain. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Him at the threshold met, and well did enterprise. Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. To undertake an enterprise, or something hazardous or difficult. [ R. ] Pope. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One who undertakes enterprises. Sir J. Hayward. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Having a disposition for enterprise; characterized by enterprise; resolute, active or prompt to attempt; as, an enterprising man or firm. -- En"ter*pri`sing*ly, adv. [1913 Webster]