dual-purpose

adjective

du·​al-purpose ˈdü-əl-ˈpər-pəs How to pronounce dual-purpose (audio)
 also  ˈdyü-
: having breed characteristics that serve two purposes
dual-purpose cattle that supply milk and meat

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The stadium was built in 1966 and served as a dual-purpose venue. Jaylon Thompson, USA TODAY, 21 Apr. 2023 For dual-purpose and deep-cycle batteries, a battery’s amp hours can offer a good indication of its reserve. Randy Zellers, Field & Stream, 10 Apr. 2023 Such dual-purpose lessons have become a familiar part of parenthood for him. Jeff Gage, Rolling Stone, 30 Mar. 2023 Cons Not as comfortable as some of our other entries The Pro-Life Z-Creeper is another entry that folds into a stool for dual-purpose comfort. Collin Morgan, Car and Driver, 24 Mar. 2023 If so, that means the USB-C port would go dual-purpose and also be used for charging. Chris Welch, The Verge, 23 Mar. 2023 Smart’s dual-purpose footwear is an early representation of today’s modern smartphone, and a good friend of mine likes to tease me about it still being the most innovative tech device, given my role covering 5G and telecommunications as an industry analyst. Will Townsend, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2023 Zipline drones will use dual-purpose docks, chargers and loading portals that are to integrate into Michigan Medicine’s new Dexter pharmacy. Kristen Jordan Shamus, Detroit Free Press, 16 Mar. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dual-purpose.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dual-purpose was in 1904

Dictionary Entries Near dual-purpose

Cite this Entry

“Dual-purpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dual-purpose. Accessed 31 May. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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