English Lexicon

Single-Purpose

/ˈsɪŋɡl ˈpɜːrpəs/
adjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Designed or intended for one specific function or use.

    "The single-purpose tool was ideal for the task at hand."
  2. 2

    Referring to an object or device that serves only one function.

    "Many modern gadgets are single-purpose, making them less versatile."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'single-purpose' is a compound adjective formed from the words 'single' and 'purpose'. 'Single' originates from the Latin 'singulus', meaning 'one' or 'individual', while 'purpose' comes from the Old French 'porpos', derived from Latin 'propositum', meaning 'proposed' or 'intended'. The combination reflects a focus on one specific function or use.

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