Purpose
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈpɝpəs/ · Part of speech noun
Quick meaning: Purpose is a noun meaning The end for which something is done, is made or exists.
Meaning
The end for which something is done, is made or exists.
More Meanings
- Function, role.
- (Sense of having a) meaning for existing or doing something.
- Resolution; determination.
- (transitive) To have or set as one's purpose or aim; resolve to accomplish; intend; plan.
- (intransitive) To have (an) intention, purpose, or design; to intend; to mean.
- (obsolete) The subject of discourse; the point at issue.
- (obsolete, intransitive) To discourse.
Example Sentences
What is the purpose of your visit?
The device can be used for both civilian and military purposes.
The exceptionally small gate-leg table served the purpose of a tea table admirably.
As with all life forms, the sole purpose of a virus is to ensure reproduction in kind.
Word Forms
- purposes
- purposing
- purposed
Synonyms for purpose
Depending on context, synonyms include aim, goal, object, target, plan, intention.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include intention, intent, resolve, function, determination, propose.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.