foray
UK: ˈfɒreɪ | US: ˈfɔːreɪ
n. a sudden attack or incursion into enemy territory, especially to obtain something
n. a brief but vigorous attempt to become involved in a new activity or sphere
vi. to make a sudden attack or incursion
The word "foray" originates from Middle English forrayen, borrowed from Old French forrier (to forage or pillage), itself derived from Frankish fōr (a journey or expedition). Initially tied to military raids for supplies, it later broadened to describe any sudden venture into unfamiliar territory, whether physical (e.g., invasions) or metaphorical (e.g., trying a new career). The morpheme for- reflects the act of seeking, while -ay functions as a noun-forming suffix.
The Vikings made a swift foray into the coastal village.
Her foray into photography began with a single workshop.
The company’s foray into the Asian market proved successful.
Biologists conducted a foray into the rainforest to study rare species.
He regretted his brief foray into politics after losing the election.