bifunctionality
|bi-func-tion-al-i-ty|
/ˌbaɪfʌŋkʃəˈnælɪti/
having two functions
Etymology
'bifunctionality' originates from Latin and Modern English components: the prefix 'bi-' (from Latin 'bis') meaning 'twice', combined with 'function' (from Latin 'functio', from 'fungi' meaning 'to perform'), plus the noun-forming suffix '-ality'.
'bifunctionality' developed in Modern English by affixing the adjective-forming element '-al' to 'function' to create 'bifunctional' (20th century technical usage), and then adding the noun-forming suffix '-ity' to produce 'bifunctionality'.
Initially formed to denote the simple property 'having two functions'; this basic meaning has been retained, though usage has broadened into technical fields (engineering, biology, chemistry) to describe specific dual roles.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of having two distinct functions or purposes.
The device's bifunctionality makes it suitable for both heating and cooling tasks.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
in biology or chemistry, the ability of a molecule, protein, or biological system to perform two different biochemical roles.
Researchers reported the bifunctionality of the enzyme, which acts both as a kinase and a phosphatase.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/09 15:10