Définition "function" dans le dictionnaire Collins English Dictionary & Thesaurus

function (functions plural & 3rd person present) (functioning present participle) (functioned past tense )

1 n-count The function of something or someone is the useful thing that they do or are intended to do. (=purpose, role)
The main function of the merchant banks is to raise capital for industry.

2 verb If a machine or system is functioning, it is working or operating.
The authorities say the prison is now functioning normally... V

3 verb If someone or something functions as a particular thing, they do the work or fulfil the purpose of that thing.
On weekdays, one third of the room functions as workspace. V as n

4 n-count A function is a series of operations that a computer performs, for example when a single key or a combination of keys is pressed.

5 n-count If you say that one thing is a function of another, you mean that its amount or nature depends on the other thing.
FORMAL Investment is a function of the interest rate.

6 n-count A function is a large formal dinner or party.