essay-n; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: an analytic or interpretive literary composition

Commentary: ESSAY[+entity][+document][+composition][+literary][+analytic]

Examples:
There was an insightful essay on the Middle East in the Atlantic Monthly.
The final exam has a problem section and two essay questions.
It was a photographic essay of 9/!!. (figurative extension)

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: an effort or attempt to do something

Commentary: ESSAY[+action][+attempt]

Examples:
Critics maintain the war was a misjudged essay.
Her essay to quiet the shouting mob did not succeed.
The dog made an essay to snatch a sausage off the grill.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 3: a trial design for postage stamps or paper money

Commentary: ESSAY[+entity][+design][+trial][-official][+paper][+stamp/+money]

Examples:
Three essays for the new stamps are being reviewed.
Mary didn't like the essay for the new five-dollar bill.

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 4