First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
1cause
noun \ˈkȯz\
: something or someone that produces an effect, result, or condition : something or someone that makes something happen or exist
: a reason for doing or feeling something
: something (such as an organization, belief, idea, or goal) that a group or people support or fight for
Full Definition of CAUSE
1
a : a reason for an action or condition : motive b : something that brings about an effect or a result c : a person or thing that is the occasion of an action or state; especially : an agent that brings something about d : sufficient reason <discharged for cause>
2
a : a ground of legal action b : case
3
: a matter or question to be decided
4
a : a principle or movement militantly defended or supported b : a charitable undertaking <for a good cause>
— cause·less \-ləs\ adjective
See cause defined for English-language learners
See cause defined for kids
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Origin of CAUSE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin causa
Related to CAUSE
2cause
verb
: to make (something) happen or exist : to be the cause of (something)
: to make (someone) feel, have, or do something
causedcaus·ing
Full Definition of CAUSE
transitive verb
1
: to serve as a cause or occasion of <cause an accident>
2
: to compel by command, authority, or force <caused him to resign>
— caus·er noun
See cause defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of CAUSE
14th century
CAUSED Defined for Kids
1cause
noun \ˈkȯz\
Definition of CAUSE for Kids
1
: a person or thing that brings about a result <Carelessness is the cause of many accidents.>
2
: a good or good enough reason for something <His return was a cause for rejoicing.>
3
: something supported or deserving support <a worthy cause>
2cause
verb
causedcaus·ing
Definition of CAUSE for Kids
: to make happen or exist <You'll cause an accident.>
3cause
conjunction \ˈkȯz, ˈkəz\
Definition of CAUSE for Kids
: because
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