Definition of function | Collins English Dictionary

function (ˈfʌŋkʃən)

the natural action or intended purpose of a person or thing in a specific role ⇒ the function of a hammer is to hit nails into wood
an official or formal social gathering or ceremony
a factor dependent upon another or other factors ⇒ the length of the flight is a function of the weather
Also called mapmappingmathematics logic a relation between two sets that associates a unique element (the value) of the second (the range) with each element (the argument) of the first (the domain): a many-one relation. Symbol: f(a relation between two sets that associates a unique element (the value) of the second (the range) with each element (the argument) of the first (the domain): a many-one relation. Symbol: f(x ) The value of f(a relation between two sets that associates a unique element (the value) of the second (the range) with each element (the argument) of the first (the domain): a many-one relation. Symbol: f() The value of f(x ) for a relation between two sets that associates a unique element (the value) of the second (the range) with each element (the argument) of the first (the domain): a many-one relation. Symbol: f() The value of f() for x = 2 is f(2)

to operate or perform as specified; work properly
(foll by as) to perform the action or role (of something or someone else) ⇒ a coin may function as a screwdriver

ˈfunctionless adjective

C16: from Latin functiō , from fungī to perform, discharge

View thesaurus entry

= result, effect, consequence, outcome, end result,

= reception, party, affair, gathering, bash, lig, social occasion soiree, do,

= work, run, operate, perform, be in business be in running order be in operation or action go,

= act, serve, operate, perform, behave, officiate, act the part of do duty have the role of be in commission be in operation or action serve your turn

The radio was carefully placed to gain maximum protection but in such a way that its aerial could perform its function.
Townsend, Eileen, In Love and War (1989)
This would kill any infected cells, meaning healthy cells could be transplanted back and restore some of the liver's function.
New Scientist (2003)
She's got to wait a year or so to see what the final level of function is.
Globe and Mail (2003)
It regards student outplacement as an important part of its function and devotes full-time staff to the concept.
Glasgow Herald (2001)
And just like any mode of transport, its function is to provide movement.
Amoda, MOVING INTO ECSTASY: An Urban Mystic's Guide to Movement, Music and Meditation (2001)