I. noun
Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of undertaken to undertake
1. : the act of one who undertakes or engages in a project or business ; specifically : the business of an undertaker
2. : something undertaken : a business, work, or project which one engages in or attempts : enterprise
large-scale undertakings involving large expeditures of money — E.L.Bernays
3. : pledge , promise , guarantee ; specifically : a promise or security required by law
II. adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from present participle of undertaken to undertake
archaic : willing to undertake an enterprise assuming the risks as organizer or manager ; especially : ready to engage in literary production or act as publisher