Inside the Universes

Words with a similar base: function, mathematical_function, single-valued_function, social_function

'function'

[function.n.01] as in: (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)

'function'

[function.n.02] as in: what something is used for

Examples:
the function of an auger is to bore holes
ballet is beautiful but what use is it?

'function'

[function.n.03] as in: the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group

Examples:
the function of a teacher
the government must do its part
play its role

'function'

[function.n.04] as in: a relation such that one thing is dependent on another

Examples:
height is a function of age
price is a function of supply and demand

'function'

[function.n.05] as in: a formal or official social gathering or ceremony

Examples:
it was a black-tie function

'function'

[affair.n.03] as in: a vaguely specified social event

Examples:
the party was quite an affair
an occasion arranged to honor the president
a seemingly endless round of social functions

'function'

[routine.n.03] as in: a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program

'function'

[function.v.01] as in: perform as expected when applied

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

'function'

[serve.v.01] as in: serve a purpose, role, or function

Examples:
The 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

'function'

[officiate.v.02] as in: perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function

Examples:
His wife officiated as his private secretary

Origins

					function (English)
└── function (Middle French (ca. 1400-1600))
    └── fonction (French)
        ├── functio (Latin)
        │   └── fungor (Latin)
        └── functionem (Latin)