■ noun
1》 the reason for which something is done or for which something exists.
2》 resolve or determination.
■ verb formal have as one's objective.
Phrases
on ~ intentionally.
to the ~ relevant or useful.
Derivatives
~less adjective
~lessly adverb
~lessness noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. porpos , from porposer , var. of proposer (see propose ).