function

/ˈfʌŋkʃən/

Reviewed on

Also a verb

Meaning

  1. The natural purpose or intended role of a person, mechanism, or system.

    • The main function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body.

    • Does this decorative button serve any practical function?

  2. A large or formal social event, ceremony, or gathering.

    • Staff members are expected to attend the annual corporate function downtown.

    • Have you decided what to wear to tomorrow night's charity function?

  3. Something that depends on and changes with something else.

    • The product's ultimate success is a direct function of consistent customer support.

    • Is investment growth purely a function of market timing?

Collocations

  • serve a function
  • vital function
  • cognitive function
  • bodily function
  • formal function
  • catered function
  • a function of

Synonyms

  • purpose
  • role
  • reception
  • gathering