n. & v.
--n.
1. a permanent stock of something ready to be drawn upon (a fund of knowledge; a fund of tenderness).
2 a stock of money, esp. one set apart for a purpose.
3 (in pl.) money resources.
4 (in pl.; prec. by the) Brit. the stock of the National Debt (as a mode of investment).
--v.tr.
1. provide with money.
2 convert (a floating debt) into a more or less permanent debt at fixed interest.
3 put into a fund.
Phrases and idioms:
fund-raiser a person who seeks financial support for a cause, enterprise, etc. fund-raising the seeking of financial support. in funds colloq. having money to spend.
Etymology: L fundus bottom, piece of land