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purpose

n. · v.
US //ˈpɝpəs// UK //pˈɜːpəs// pur·pose
  1. 1 function (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the specific job or role that something has.

    the practical function or role served by an object or process.

    Example

    The main purpose of the heart is to pump blood around the body.

    Example

    While the building was originally a warehouse, its current purpose is to provide affordable studio space for local artists.
  2. 2 determination (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a feeling of having a clear plan and the strength to finish it.

    a sense of resolve or determination; the quality of being resolute.

    Example

    She walked into the room with a sense of purpose, ready to start the project.

    Example

    The new CEO spoke with such purpose that the demoralised staff immediately felt a renewed commitment to the company's mission.
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  1. 3 to intend (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Literary

    to plan or intend to do something.

    to set as one's aim or intention; to resolve to accomplish a specific task.

    Example

    He purposed to finish the book before the end of the year.

    Example

    The explorer purposed to reach the summit by noon, though the worsening weather threatened to derail his timeline.

    Usage

    Often followed by a 'to' infinitive.
Etymology 1

From Middle English purpos, from Old French purposer (“to propose”) (with conjugation altered based on poser), from Latin prō- (“forth”) + pōnere (“place, put”), hence Latin prōpōnō, prōpōnere.

Etymology 2

From Middle English purposen, from Old French purposer (“to propose”).

Word family

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