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function

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verb

as in to serve
to have a certain purpose the heart functions as a pump for the blood

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word function distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of function are duty, office, and province. While all these words mean "the acts or operations expected of a person or thing," function implies a definite end or purpose or a particular kind of work.

the function of language is two-fold: to communicate emotion and to give information — Aldous Huxley

In what contexts can duty take the place of function?

Although the words duty and function have much in common, duty applies to a task or responsibility imposed by one's occupation, rank, status, or calling.

it is the judicial duty of the court, to examine the whole case — R. B. Taney

When is office a more appropriate choice than function?

While in some cases nearly identical to function, office is typically applied to the function or service associated with a trade or profession or a special relationship to others.

they exercise the offices of the judge, the priest, the counsellor — W. E. Gladstone

When would province be a good substitute for function?

The words province and function can be used in similar contexts, but province applies to a function, office, or duty that naturally or logically falls to one.

I felt it was not my province to inquire — Anne Brontë

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of function
Noun
On the other hand, employees who ask questions about how AI functions and how to apply it responsibly help their organizations gain a real competitive advantage. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025 In this case, just adding one molecule at the interface solved a problem that’s been blocking dual-function indoor devices for years. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 14 Sep. 2025
Verb
Once multiple organs cease to function, death is imminent. Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 8 Sep. 2025 High blood pressure can constrict the vessels around the kidney and reduce its ability to function. Nadia Kounang, CNN Money, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for function
Recent Examples of Synonyms for function
Noun
  • On Wednesday afternoon, Turning Point USA founder and right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.
    Rebecca Jennings, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The latest commitment will allow Startup Junkie to continue the program for three years and expand the team's capacity to serve clients and prospective borrowers with more resources, hands-on support and events.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Barrett's clear statement on the 22nd Amendment carries significant weight given her position on the Supreme Court, which would likely be asked to rule on any attempt to circumvent the two-term limit.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025
  • At home, consciously shape algorithm interactions to reflect your preferences and ethical positions.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only.
    William Jones, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • In a 2004 study, the United States Institute of Peace said that hundreds of terrorist groups had migrated online, utilizing a tool meant for better communication for often nefarious purposes.
    Richard Frankel, ABC News, 11 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Their propellants are a mixture of fuel and oxidizer, with metallic powders such as aluminum often serving as the fuel.
    Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025
  • That includes salad and dinner plates, serving platters, pie plates, bowls, and more.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Many of the amendments are likely to spark infighting among Republicans as the party battles over whether to become more isolationist in the face of skepticism about assisting foreign countries.
    Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Investigators said that parties involved in the argument were leaving the indoor amusement park when Reed assaulted an employee, unprovoked, while making his way outside.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Duncan Wanblad, chief executive of Anglo, will take the top job and Anglo Teck while Teck’s chief executive Jonathan Price, will be his deputy.
    Tim Treadgold, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025
  • That’s when Billy Napier accepted the Florida job.
    Maddie Hartley, Kansas City Star, 10 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Fashion and sociology experts say that, when examining the significance of any bold fashion statement such as Robbie's, context plays an important role.
    Charles Trepany, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025
  • And the new role had a different sort of perk, in the form of compensation.
    David Mark, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The sound department actually played the music that would overlay the scene as Dockery acted.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 11 Sep. 2025
  • How much has Charlie Sheen earned from acting?
    Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Function.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/function. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.

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