Dictionary


pur•pose



Pronunciation: (pûr'pus), [key]
—n., v., -posed, -pos•ing.

—n.
1. the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.
2. an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.
3. determination; resoluteness.
4. the subject in hand; the point at issue.
5. practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose.
6. on purpose, by design; intentionally: How could you do such a thing on purpose?
7. to the purpose, relevant; to the point: Her objections were not to the purpose.

—v.t.
1. to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself.
2. to intend; design.
3. to resolve (to do something): He purposed to change his way of life radically.

—v.i.
to have a purpose.

Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.

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