essay

Signification

Noun

1. A written composition of moderate length, exploring a particular issue or subject.
2. (obsolete) A test, experiment; an assay.
3. An attempt.
4. A proposed design for a postage stamp or a banknote.

Verb

1. To attempt or try.
2. To move forth, as into battle.

Prononcé comme (IPA)

/ˈɛs.eɪ/

Étymologie

Since late 16th century, borrowed from Middle French essay, essai (“essay”), meaning coined by Montaigne in the same time, from the same words in earlier meanings 'experiment; assay; attempt', from Old French essay, essai, assay, assai, from Latin exagium (“weight; weighing, testing on the balance”), from exigere + -ium.