English dictionary



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English noun: function

1. function (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)


Synonymsmap, mapping, mathematical function, single-valued function


Broader (hypernym)mathematical relation


Narrower (hyponym)circular function, expansion, exponential, exponential function, inverse function, isometry, Kronecker delta, metric, metric function, multinomial, operator, polynomial, threshold function, transformation, trigonometric function


Domain categorymath, mathematics, maths

2. function (attribute) what something is used for


SamplesThe function of an auger is to bore holes.
Ballet is beautiful but what use is it?.


Synonymspurpose, role, use


Broader (hypernym)usefulness, utility


Narrower (hyponym)raison d'etre


Attributefunctional, nonfunctional

3. function (act) the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group


SamplesThe function of a teacher.
The government must do its part.
Play its role.


Synonymsoffice, part, role


Broader (hypernym)duty


Narrower (hyponym)capacity, hat, lieu, place, portfolio, position, second fiddle, stead

4. function a relation such that one thing is dependent on another


SamplesHeight is a function of age.
Price is a function of supply and demand.


Broader (hypernym)relation

5. function (group) a formal or official social gathering or ceremony


SamplesIt was a black-tie function.


Broader (hypernym)social affair, social gathering

6. function (event) a vaguely specified social event


SamplesThe party was quite an affair.
An occasion arranged to honor the president.
A seemingly endless round of social functions.


Synonymsaffair, occasion, social function, social occasion


Broader (hypernym)social event


Narrower (hyponym)celebration, ceremonial, ceremonial occasion, ceremony, fundraiser, jubilation, observance, party, photo op, photo opportunity, sleepover

7. function (communication) a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program


Synonymsprocedure, routine, subprogram, subroutine


Broader (hypernym)computer software, package, software, software package, software program, software system


Narrower (hyponym)cataloged procedure, contingency procedure, executive routine, library routine, random number generator, recursive routine, reusable routine, service routine, supervisory routine, tracing routine, utility routine


Part meronymcomputer program, computer programme, program, programme


English verb: function

1. function (contact) perform as expected when applied


SamplesThe washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in.
Does this old car still run well?.
This old radio doesn't work anymore.


ExamplesThese cars won't function


Synonymsgo, operate, run, work


Pattern of useSomething ----s


Narrower (hyponym)cut, double, roll, run, serve, service


Verb grouprun, work


Antonymsmalfunction, misfunction

2. function (stative) serve a purpose, role, or function


SamplesThe 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.


Synonymsserve


Pattern of useSomething ----s.
Somebody ----s.
Somebody ----s somebody.
Something ----s something


Broader (hypernym)answer, do, serve, suffice


Narrower (hyponym)act as, prelude


Verb groupserve, service

3. function (competition) perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function


SamplesHis wife officiated as his private secretary.


Synonymsofficiate


Pattern of useSomebody ----s.
Somebody ----s PP


Broader (hypernym)serve









Based on WordNet 3.0 copyright © Princeton University.
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