function
     n 1: a mathematical relation such that each element of one set is
          associated with at least one element of another set
          [syn: {mathematical function}]
     2: what something is used for; "the function of an auger is to
        bore holes"; "ballet is beautiful but what use is it?"
        [syn: {purpose}, {role}, {use}]
     3: the actions and activities assigned to or required or
        expected of a person or group; "the function of a
        teacher"; "the government must do its part"; "play its
        role" [syn: {office}, {part}, {role}]
     4: a relation such that one thing is dependent on another;
        "height is a function of age"; "price is a function of
        supply and demand"
     5: a formal or official social gathering or ceremony; "it was a
        black-tie function"
     6: a vaguely specified social event; "the party was quite an
        affair"; "an occasion arranged to honor the president"; "a
        seemingly endless round of social functions" [syn: {affair},
         {occasion}, {social occasion}, {social function}]
     7: a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program
        [syn: {routine}, {subroutine}, {subprogram}, {procedure}]
     v 1: perform as expected when applied; "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" [syn: {work},
           {operate}, {go}, {run}] [ant: {malfunction}]
     2: serve a purpose, role, or function; "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" [syn: {serve}]
     3: perform duties attached to a particular office or place or
        function; "His wife officiated as his private secretary"
        [syn: {officiate}]
Source: WordNet® 2.0