function

noun

• 1an activity that is natural to or the purpose of a person or thing:bridges perform the function of providing access across water bodily functions
• [mass noun] practical use or purpose in design:building designs that prioritize style over function
• a basic task of a computer, especially one that corresponds to a single instruction from the user.

• 2 Mathematics a relation or expression involving one or more variables:the function (bx + c)
• a variable quantity regarded in relation to one or more other variables in terms of which it may be expressed or on which its value depends: the magnetic field has varied as a function of time
• Chemistry a functional group: the carboxyl group was replaced by functions that included tetrazolyl-, sulphonyl-, and phosphoryl-

• 3a thing dependent on another factor or factors:class shame is a function of social power

• 4a large or formal social event or ceremony: he was obliged to attend party functions

verb

• work or operate in a proper or particular way:her liver is functioning normally
• (function as) fulfil the purpose or task of (a specified thing):the museum intends to function as an educational and study centre