single-function
|sin-gle-func-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌsɪŋɡəlˈfʌŋkʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌsɪŋɡ(ə)lˈfʌŋkʃ(ə)n/
only one function
Etymology
'single-function' is a compound formed from the adjective 'single' and the noun 'function'. 'single' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'singulus' (via Old French 'sengle'/'single'), where 'singul-' meant 'one'. 'function' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'functio', where the root 'fungi' meant 'to perform' or 'to execute'.
'single' entered English via Old French 'sengle' (from Latin 'singulus'); 'function' came into English from Latin 'functio' through Medieval Latin and Old French. The hyphenated compound 'single-function' developed in modern English usage (notably in technical and industrial contexts) from the 19th–20th century onward.
Initially, 'single' meant 'one' and 'function' meant 'performance' or 'operation'. Over time, the compound came to be used specifically to describe something that 'has only one function' in modern technical and everyday usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an object or device that performs only one function; a single-purpose item.
In many factories, a single-function machine handles only one stage of production.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
designed or intended to perform only one function; having a single purpose.
The remote control is single-function, only operating the TV's power and volume.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/21 06:21