/un'deuhr tayk"/ , v. , undertook, undertaken, undertaking .
v.t.
1. to take upon oneself, as a task, performance, etc.; attempt: She undertook the job of answering all the mail.
2. to promise, agree, or obligate oneself (fol. by an infinitive): The married couple undertook to love, honor, and cherish each other.
3. to warrant or guarantee (fol. by a clause): The sponsors undertake that their candidate meets all the requirements.
4. to take in charge; assume the duty of attending to: The lawyer undertook a new case.
v.i.
5. Archaic. to engage oneself by promise; give a guarantee, or become surety.
[ 1150-1200; ME undertaken; see UNDER-, TAKE ]