# multipurpose

/ˌməɫtiˈpɝpəs/ (US) · /mˌʌltɪpˈɜːpəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/multipurpose
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing something that can be used for many different purposes. You use this to talk about tools or rooms that have more than one job.

For teachers: capable of serving several different functions or purposes. Often used to describe objects, spaces, or software designed for versatility.

## Examples

- The kitchen table is a multipurpose piece of furniture.
- The new software is a multipurpose tool that can handle everything from basic accounting to complex data analysis.
- Architects often design multipurpose spaces in urban centers to maximize efficiency, allowing a single room to serve as a living area, a home office, and a guest bedroom depending on the time of day.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.