Purpose

/ˈpɝpəs/ · noun

Meaning

The end for which something is done, is made or exists..

Definitions by Sense

1. The end for which something is done, is made or exists.
2. Function, role.
3. (Sense of having a) meaning for existing or doing something.
4. Resolution; determination.
5. (obsolete) The subject of discourse; the point at issue.
6. (transitive) To have or set as one's purpose or aim; resolve to accomplish; intend; plan.
7. (intransitive) To have (an) intention, purpose, or design; to intend; to mean.
8. (obsolete, intransitive) To discourse.

Example Sentences

What is the purpose of your visit?

The device can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

In his submission to the UN, [Christof] Heyns points to the experience of drones. Unmanned aerial vehicles were intended initially only for surveillance, and their use for offensive purposes was prohibited, yet once strategists realised their perceived advantages as a means of carrying out targeted killings, all objections were swept out of the way.

The exceptionally small gate-leg table served the purpose of a tea table admirably.

The purpose of the gall-bladder is obviously to permit the accumulation of bile, when it is not wanted in the intestine; and we find it most constantly present in those tribes of animals, which live upon animal food

As with all life forms, the sole purpose of a virus is to ensure reproduction in kind.

Is it the purpose of mosquitoes to ultimately provide calories to large birds of prey?

The purpose of the dance is to attract attention to the returning worker bee so she can share the odor of the nectar with other workers who will then follow the odor trail to the source.

Synonyms for purpose

Antonyms for purpose

Related Words

Word Forms

• purposes
• purposing
• purposed

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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