pur·pose
(pûŕpəs)
[Middle English purpos, from Anglo-Norman, from purposer, to intend, pur-, forth (from Latin prō-; see pro–1), + poser, to put; see pose1.]
noun
- The object toward which one strives or for which something exists; an aim or a goal: “And ever those, who would enjoyment gain/Must find it in the purpose they pursue” (Sarah Josepha Hale)
- A result or effect that is intended or desired; an intention. See synonyms at intention
- Determination; resolution: He was a man of purpose.
- The matter at hand; the point at issue.
transitive verb: -posed, -pos·ing, -pos·es.
- To intend or resolve to perform or accomplish.
idioms
- on purpose
- Intentionally; deliberately.
- to good purpose
- With good results.
- to little purpose
- With few or no results.