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.
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.
En"ter*prise, v. i. To undertake
an enterprise, or something hazardous or difficult. [R.]
Pope.
