Function

Encyclopedia : F : FU : FUN : Function

Function may mean:

In mathematics and most scientific and technical fields, an abstract entity that associates every element (input, argument) of a certain set of numbers or other objects to a corresponding element (output, result) in some other set: see function (mathematics).
In computer science, depending on the context and programming language:
*A mathematical function, as above.
*Any subroutine or procedure.
*A subroutine that returns a value.
*A subroutine which has no side-effects; see functional programming.
*A function object, a concept of object-oriented programming.
In some scientific or technical contexts, a deterministic relation between two quantities or phenomena, e.g. by definition, by design, or by a natural cause-and-effect connection.
In language studies, the grammatical function of a word or phrase in a sentence.
In sociology, the focus of functionalism: see social function.
In philosophy, a normative relation of objects to their use or consequences; see function (philosophy).
In music, the role (tonic, dominant, etc.) of a note in a chord: see diatonic functionality.

See also