function
♦♦ func|tion /f'ʌŋkʃən/ (functions functioning functioned)
1 [N-COUNT] with supp
The function of something or someone is the useful thing that they do or are intended to do.
The main function of the merchant banks is to raise capital for industry.
= purpose, role
2 [VERB] V
If a machine or system is functioning, it is working or operating.
The authorities say the prison is now functioning normally...
3 [VERB] V as n
If someone or something functions as a particular thing, they do the work or fulfil the purpose of that thing.
On weekdays, one third of the room functions as workspace.
4 [N-COUNT]
A function is a series of operations that a computer performs, for example when a single key or a combination of keys is pressed.
5 [N-COUNT] usu sing, N of n
If you say that one thing is a function of another, you mean that its amount or nature depends on the other thing. (FORMAL)
Investment is a function of the interest rate.
6 [N-COUNT]
A function is a large formal dinner or party.bodi|ly func|tion (bodily functions)
[N-COUNT]
A person's bodily functions are the normal physical processes that regularly occur in their body, particularly the ability to urinate and defecate.
The child was not able to speak, walk properly or control bodily functions.func|tion key (function keys)
[N-COUNT]
Function keys are the keys along the top of a computer keyboard, usually numbered from F1 to F12. Each key is designed to make a particular thing happen when you press it. (COMPUTING)
Just hit the F5 function key to send and receive your e-mails.
1 [N-COUNT] with supp
The function of something or someone is the useful thing that they do or are intended to do.
The main function of the merchant banks is to raise capital for industry.
= purpose, role
2 [VERB] V
If a machine or system is functioning, it is working or operating.
The authorities say the prison is now functioning normally...
3 [VERB] V as n
If someone or something functions as a particular thing, they do the work or fulfil the purpose of that thing.
On weekdays, one third of the room functions as workspace.
4 [N-COUNT]
A function is a series of operations that a computer performs, for example when a single key or a combination of keys is pressed.
5 [N-COUNT] usu sing, N of n
If you say that one thing is a function of another, you mean that its amount or nature depends on the other thing. (FORMAL)
Investment is a function of the interest rate.
6 [N-COUNT]
A function is a large formal dinner or party.bodi|ly func|tion (bodily functions)
[N-COUNT]
A person's bodily functions are the normal physical processes that regularly occur in their body, particularly the ability to urinate and defecate.
The child was not able to speak, walk properly or control bodily functions.func|tion key (function keys)
[N-COUNT]
Function keys are the keys along the top of a computer keyboard, usually numbered from F1 to F12. Each key is designed to make a particular thing happen when you press it. (COMPUTING)
Just hit the F5 function key to send and receive your e-mails.