purpose: Meaning and Definition of

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. by design; intentionally: How could you do such a thing on purpose?
  7. 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.
  1. to have a purpose.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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