multipurpose
Americanadjective
adjective
Etymology
Origin of multipurpose
Explanation
Anything multipurpose can be used in many different ways. A multipurpose tool might include a screwdriver, flashlight, and bottle opener all in one. At your school, a multipurpose room could provide space for a music class, an after-school art club, and an area for the debate club's meetings. If you're prescribed a multipurpose medication, it might take care of your headache while also easing your stiff elbow and making you feel more energetic. Multipurpose combines multi, "many or much," from the Latin multus, with purpose, "intention," from the Old French porpos, "aim."
Vocabulary lists containing multipurpose
Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: multi-
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Florida's B.E.S.T. Roots: multi
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
If I don’t, I use Steve’s multipurpose counterinflation mantra: “Well then don’t buy it.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 2, 2026
A 2016 draft master plan earmarks the building as a veteran multipurpose union with a cafeteria as an alternate use.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026
The project, agreed in principle with the Fujairah Ports Authority under a 50-year concession, includes a container and multipurpose terminal and a general-cargo terminal, the global ports operator said Wednesday.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
The district has also installed a temporary satellite library inside a multipurpose room at Loma Alta Park.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 4, 2026
The water is already clouding with a swirling murk of poisonous multipurpose cleanser.
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
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Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
