effortful

[ ef-ert-fuhl ]

adjective

1. marked by effort or exertion; labored.

Other Words From

• effort·ful·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of effortful¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; effort + -ful

Example Sentences

Dyer on a bad day is still more profound, and more polished, than most writers at their effortful best.

From The Daily Beast

The techniques that Foer describes are as effortful as they are old.

From The Daily Beast

Doctor Hoff blinked more rapidly and moistened his lips with an effortful tongue.

From Project Gutenberg

"It's rather less than your customary one, I'm afraid," said the Tyro, with an effortful smile.

From Project Gutenberg

With all studies in general, history shares in training perceptive, associative, and effortful activities.

From Project Gutenberg

The personality seemed very intense, and spoke in effortful whispers.

From Project Gutenberg

But barely had she entered the tinted atmosphere when her movements became awkward and convulsive, effortful and excited.

From Project Gutenberg