embark

verb

em·​bark im-ˈbärk How to pronounce embark (audio)
embarked; embarking; embarks

intransitive verb

1
: to go on board a vehicle for transportation
the troops embarked at noon
2
: to make a start
embarked on a new career

transitive verb

1
: to cause to go on board (a boat, an airplane, etc.)
2
: to engage, enlist, or invest in an enterprise
embarkation noun
embarkment noun

Examples of embark in a Sentence

The troops are waiting to embark. Millions of Europeans embarked for America in the late 19th century.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What Is The Premise of the New Season of Phineas and Ferb? Phineas Flynn, his stepbrother Ferb Fletcher, and their crew of friends are still planning and embarking on epic summer adventures. Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 28 May 2025 In the evenings, Vincent embarks on a surreptitious love affair with Arthur, a soldier on leave — who's also the son of Vincent's governess. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 27 May 2025 Following her win, Farmer embarked on a successful career, including a headlining show at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas and a nationwide tour. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 27 May 2025 The story follows Jennifer Taylor, who, after decades of silence, embarks on a journey from Connecticut to Normandy to uncover her father’s untold legacy as a combat cameraman. Time Pr, Time, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for embark

Word History

Etymology

Middle French embarquer, from Old Occitan embarcar, from em- (from Latin in-) + barca bark

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embark was in 1533

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embark.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embark. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

embark

verb
em·​bark im-ˈbärk How to pronounce embark (audio)
1
: to go or put on board a ship or airplane
2
: to begin some task or project
embark on a career
embarkation noun
embarkment noun

More from Merriam-Webster on embark

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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