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Unction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unction

[ˈfʌŋkʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

computer science

A function is a self-contained block of code that encapsulates a specific task or related group of tasks in programming. It can take inputs, perform a specific operation, and return an output. Functions help to organize code and make it reusable.

Synonyms

method, procedure, routine, subroutine.

Examples of usage

  • The function calculates the sum of two numbers.
  • In JavaScript, functions can be defined using the function keyword.
  • You'll need to call the function to execute the code inside.
  • They wrote a function to fetch data from the server.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religion

  • In many religions, unction involves anointing individuals to signify holiness or set them apart for a sacred purpose.
  • Christianity traditionally uses 'unction' in sacraments, especially in the ritual of anointing the sick.
  • The practice symbolizes divine approval, healing, or empowerment, engaging faith communities.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, different oils or substances are used for unction, often tied to local beliefs and traditions.
  • In ancient Egypt, unction with oils was a crucial part of mummification, believed to aid the journey to the afterlife.
  • Among royals, unction has historically marked the coronation ceremonies, symbolizing divine right to rule.

Literature

  • Unction appears in poetry and prose symbolizing care, tenderness, or a healing touch from a loved one.
  • Shakespeare often used the term metaphorically, suggesting a soothing or calming influence.
  • In religious literature, unction frequently symbolizes forgiveness, mercy, and spiritual healing.

Medicine

  • In a historical context, unction referred to medicinal applications, such as using oils for healing remedies.
  • Before modern medicine, various cultures used unction as a primary means to treat wounds and ailments with natural oils.
  • Today, while the term is less common, it still influences the language of care in both holistic and clinical practices.

Origin of 'unction'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'unctio', which means 'anointing' or 'ointment'.
  • Related to the verb 'ungere', meaning 'to anoint' or 'to rub in oil'.
  • 'Unction' has been used in English since the 14th century to describe ceremonial uses of oils.

The term 'function' originates from the Latin word 'functio' which means 'performance, execution'. Its use in mathematics can be traced back to the 17th century, when mathematicians began using the term to describe relations between variables. In the context of computer science, 'function' gained prominence in the mid-20th century as programming languages evolved. Early languages such as Fortran and Lisp utilized functions as fundamental building blocks for code, allowing for abstraction and code reuse. The concept of a function encompasses a wide range of interpretations today, but it usually signifies a segment of code defined to carry out a specific task.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,494, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.