|
(), n.[L. functio, fr. fungi to perform, execute, akin to Skr. bhuj to enjoy, have the use of: cf. F. fonction. Cf. Defunct.] 1. The act of executing or performing any duty, office, or calling; performance. "In the function of his public calling." Swift. 2. (Physiol.) The appropriate action of any special organ or part of an animal or vegetable organism; as, the function of the heart or the limbs; the function of leaves, sap, roots, etc.; life is the sum of the functions of the various organs and parts of the body. 3. The natural or assigned action of any power or faculty, as of the soul, or of the intellect; the exertion of an energy of some determinate kind. As the mind opens, and its functions spread. Pope. 4. The course of action which peculiarly pertains to any public officer in church or state; the activity appropriate to any business or profession. Tradesmen . . . going about their functions. Shak. The malady which made him incapable of performing his regal functions. Macaulay Func"tion (), Func"tionate ()} v. i.To execute or perform a function; to transact one's regular or appointed business. Func"tion (), n. 1. (Eccl.) A religious ceremony, esp. one particularly impressive and elaborate. Every solemn function' performed with the requirements of the liturgy. Card. Wiseman. 2. A public or social ceremony or gathering; a festivity or entertainment, esp. one somewhat formal. This function, which is our chief social event. W. D. Howells. スポンサード リンク
|