embark

[ em-bahrk ]

verb (used without object)

1. to board a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, as for a journey.
2. to start an enterprise, business, etc.

verb (used with object)

1. to put or receive on board a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle.
2. to involve (someone) in an enterprise.
3. to venture or invest (something) in an enterprise.

embark

/ ɛmˈbɑːk /

verb

1. to board (a ship or aircraft)
2. intr; usually foll by on or upon to commence or engage (in) a new project, venture, etc

Derived Forms

• ˌembarˈkation, noun
• emˈbarkment, noun

Other Words From

• reem·bark verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of embark¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Middle French embarquer, from Spanish embarcar; from em- em- ¹ + -barcar, verb derivative of barca bark ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of embark¹

C16: via French from Old Provençal embarcar, from em- + barca boat, barque

Example Sentences

In less than two weeks since being elected again, Donald J. Trump has embarked on a new campaign to shatter the institutions of Washington as no incoming president has in his lifetime.

From Salon

A recent review into Northern Ireland's entire education system noted that "many learners with special needs face particular difficulties at the point of leaving school and embarking upon adult life".

From BBC

Anderson said Moore and her ex-boyfriend, Anthony David Flores, had embarked on a scheme to exploit the victim, Mark Sawusch, and “hijack his fortune.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Second Lady is also vocal when it comes to party politics - and has embarked on campaign tours for the NPP.

From BBC

But another source said: “Everyone wants to fix it but we don’t want to embark on something that then doesn’t happen.”

From BBC

Related Words

• commence
• enter
• launch