function

Everyday

1. The job or purpose of something or someone. tree →
2. (verb) To work or operate properly. tree →
3. A formal party or event. tree →
4. (maths) A rule that turns each input number into exactly one output number, like a function machine. tree →

In the lessons

In science: the function of the heart is to pump blood. In maths: function machines ("input 3, rule ×2 + 1, output 7"). In English: the function of a word in a sentence. Phrases: function machine, function as, a school function.

Examples

• The function of the lungs is to take in air. tree →
• The lift is not functioning today. tree →
• Put 4 into the function machine "× 3": the output is 12. tree →
• The school held a function to raise money. tree →
• This table also functions as a desk. tree →
• What is the function of a full stop? tree →
• The computer stopped functioning. tree →
• The true fabulist, therefore, discharges a most important function. tree →

Note

Countable. Adjective: functional. Maths: a function gives one output for each input; to work backwards use the inverse operations in reverse order.

In Jewish tradition

In Sefer Yetzirah the "function" of the third power is to be the judge between two opposing forces, as a balance does. In the primary lessons: In science: the function of the heart is to pump blood. In maths: function machines ("input 3, rule ×2 + 1, output 7"). In English: the function of a word in a sentence. Phrases: function machine, function as, a school function.

Examples

• The Second sect admitted Three great Powers ; two of them as in the first case, and a third Power whose function was to decide between (Sefer Yetzirah, Westcott 1893) tree →
• The Second sect admitted Three great Powers; two of them as in the first case, and a third Power whose function was to decide between [p. 7] the two others, a supreme arbitrator. (Sefer Yetzirah, Westcott 1893) tree →
• It’s possible that these four are meant to signify the four stomachs of ruminants, the functions of which were not wholly understood in the past and may have been believed to be present in humans. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →

Note

Countable. Adjective: functional. Maths: a function gives one output for each input; to work backwards use the inverse operations in reverse order.