1. (v. t.) To divide or separate, as one sort from another; to winnow; to sift; to pick out; -- frequently followed by out; as, to try out the wild corn from the good.

2. (v. t.) To purify or refine, as metals; to melt out, and procure in a pure state, as oil, tallow, lard, etc.

3. (v. t.) To prove by experiment; to apply a test to, for the purpose of determining the quality; to examine; to prove; to test; as, to try weights or measures by a standard; to try a man's opinions.

4. (v. t.) To subject to severe trial; to put to the test; to cause suffering or trouble to.

5. (v. t.) To experiment with; to test by use; as, to try a remedy for disease; to try a horse.

6. (v. t.) To strain; to subject to excessive tests; as, the light tries his eyes; repeated disappointments try one's patience.

7. (v. t.) To examine or investigate judicially; to examine by witnesses or other judicial evidence and the principles of law; as, to try a cause, or a criminal.

8. (v. t.) To settle; to decide; to determine; specifically, to decide by an appeal to arms; as, to try rival claims by a duel; to try conclusions.

9. (v. t.) To experience; to have or gain knowledge of by experience.

10. (v. t.) To essay; to attempt; to endeavor.

11. (v. i.) To exert strength; to endeavor; to make an effort or an attempt; as, you must try hard if you wish to learn.

12. (v. i.) To do; to fare; as, how do you try!

13. (n.) A screen, or sieve, for grain.

14. (n.) Act of trying; attempt; experiment; trial.

15. (v. t.) Refined; select; excellent; choice.

Thesaurus Entries