/ rɪˈsɔːs; -ˈzɔːs; NAmE ˈriːsɔːrs; rɪˈsɔːrs/ noun , verb
■ noun
1.
[ C , usually pl. ] a supply of sth that a country, an organization or a person has and can use, especially to increase their wealth :
the exploitation of minerals and other natural resources
We do not have the resources (= money) to update our computer software.
We must make the most efficient use of the available financial resources.
We agreed to pool our resources (= so that everyone gives sth) .
—see also human resources
2.
[ C ] something that can be used to help achieve an aim, especially a book, equipment, etc. that provides information for teachers and students :
The database could be used as a teaching resource in colleges.
Time is your most valuable resource, especially in examinations.
resource books for teachers
3.
resources [ pl. ] personal qualities such as courage and imagination that help you deal with difficult situations :
He has no inner resources and hates being alone.
■ verb
[ vn ] to provide sth with the money or equipment that is needed :
Schools in the area are still inadequately resourced.
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WORD ORIGIN
early 17th cent.: from obsolete French ressourse , feminine past participle (used as a noun) of Old French dialect resourdre rise again, recover (based on Latin surgere to rise).