(mathematics) a mathematical relation such that each element of a given set (the domain of the function) is associated with an element of another set (the range of the function)

02noun

what something is used for

“the function of an auger is to bore holes”

“ballet is beautiful but what use is it?”

03noun

the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group

“the function of a teacher”

“the government must do its part”

04noun

a relation such that one thing is dependent on another

“height is a function of age”

“price is a function of supply and demand”

6 more meanings

05noun

a formal or official social gathering or ceremony

“it was a black-tie function”

06noun

a formal or official social gathering or ceremony of people

“the party was quite an affair”

“an occasion arranged to honor the president”

07noun

a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program

08verb

perform as expected when applied

“The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in”

“Does this old car still run well?”

09verb

serve a purpose, role, or function

“The tree stump serves as a table”

“The female students served as a control group”

10verb

perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function

“His wife officiated as his private secretary”

Meanings and examples from Open English WordNet 2025. About our sources ↗

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Expressions with “function”

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Explore multiword dictionary entries containing this word. Each has its own meanings and related words.

function call function word onto function bodily function linear function metric function social function control function