1. (v. t.) To take upon one's self; to engage in; to enter upon; to take in hand; to begin to perform; to set about; to attempt.

2. (v. t.) Specifically, to take upon one's self solemnly or expressly; to lay one's self under obligation, or to enter into stipulations, to perform or to execute; to covenant; to contract.

3. (v. t.) Hence, to guarantee; to promise; to affirm.

4. (v. t.) To assume, as a character.

5. (v. t.) To engage with; to attack.

6. (v. t.) To have knowledge of; to hear.

7. (v. t.) To take or have the charge of.

8. (v. i.) To take upon one's self, or assume, any business, duty, or province.

9. (v. i.) To venture; to hazard.

10. (v. i.) To give a promise or guarantee; to be surety.