function

a mathematical relation such that each element of one set is associated with at least one element of another set

what something is used for

• “the function of an auger is to bore holes”
• “ballet is beautiful but what use is it?”

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”
• “play its role”

a relation such that one thing is dependent on another

• “height is a function of age”
• “price is a function of supply and demand”

a formal or official social gathering or ceremony

• “it was a black-tie function”

a vaguely specified social event

• “the party was quite an affair”
• “an occasion arranged to honor the president”
• “a seemingly endless round of social functions”

a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program

perform as expected when applied

• “The washing machine won”
• “s plugged in”
• “Does this old car still run well?”
• “This old radio doesn”

serve a purpose, role, or function

• “The tree stump serves as a table”
• “The female students served as a control group”
• “This table would serve very well”
• “His freedom served him well”
• “The table functions as a desk”

perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function

• “His wife officiated as his private secretary”