verb

• (obsolete) To try to move, by entreaty, by afflictions, or by temptations; to tempt.
  "Yet since I see you fearful, that neither my coat, integrity, nor persuasion can with ease attempt you, I will go further than I meant, to pluck all fears out of you."
• (archaic) To try to win, subdue, or overcome.
  "one who attempts the virtue of a woman"
• (archaic) To attack; to make an effort or attack upon; to try to take by force.
  "to attempt the enemy’s camp"
• (criminal law) To make a substantial but unsuccessful effort (to commit a crime).
  "Whoever takes a direct and immediate step towards the realisation of the offence as envisaged by them attempts to commit an offence."

noun

• (criminal law) A substantial but unsuccessful effort (to commit a crime).
  "Whoever voluntarily abandons the further commission of the offence or prevents its completion incurs no penalty for attempt."