function: [16] The ultimate source of function is the Latin verb fungī ‘perform, discharge’, which may be related to Sanskrit bhunkte ‘he enjoys’. From its past participle, functus, was formed the abstract noun functiō ‘performance, activity’, which passed into English via Old French fonction. Other English derivatives of fungī include defunct and perfunctory [16], etymologically ‘done only to discharge an obligation’. => defunct, perfunctory
function (n.)
1530s, "one's proper work or purpose; power of acting in a specific proper way," from Middle French fonction (16c.) and directly from Latin functionem (nominative functio) "a performance, an execution," noun of action from funct-, past participle stem of fungi "perform, execute, discharge," from PIE root *bheug- (2) "to use, enjoy" (see brook (v.)). Meaning "official ceremony" is from 1630s, originally in church use. Use in mathematics probably was begun by Leibnitz (1692). In reference to computer operations, 1947.
function (v.)
1844, "perform a function" (intransitive), from function (n.). Related: Functioned; functioning.
实用例句
1. His function is vital to the accomplishment of the agency's mission.
要完成该机构的使命，他的作用至关重要。
来自柯林斯例句
2. They were decked out in tracksuits, seemingly to dissimulate their true function.
他们都穿着田径服，似乎想掩饰他们的真实职能。
来自柯林斯例句
3. A complex engine has many separate components, each performing a different function.
一个复杂发动机有很多独立零部件，每个零部件具有不同作用。
来自柯林斯例句
4. He had been invited to grace a function at the evening college.
他应邀为这所夜校的活动捧场。
来自柯林斯例句
5. The other fundamental consideration in the conception of a plan is function.
