DictionarySocial slang

Function

Definition

A party, gathering, event, or social occasion, especially one people plan to attend for music, friends, or nightlife.

Example
Everybody is going to the function after the game.
How it is used

Function is used informally for a party or organized social event. Speakers may ask where the function is, whether a function is active, or who will be there. In other contexts, function keeps its ordinary meanings in mathematics, technology, work, and biology, so surrounding words matter.

Origin and context

Function has long meant an organized event or formal social occasion in standard English. African American English, hip-hop, regional party culture, and social media helped popularize its current casual use for parties, kickbacks, and nightlife gatherings.

Common variations

the function

The specific party or social event currently being discussed.

function fit

An outfit chosen specifically for a party or social event.

function jumping

Moving between multiple parties or social events in one period.

Frequently asked questions
What kind of event counts as a function?

A house party, school event, club night, kickback, concert gathering, or other organized social occasion can all be called a function.

Does function always mean a large party?

No. It can describe anything from a small gathering to a major event, depending on the speaker and setting.

How can you tell whether function means party or something technical?

Social context, references to attending, outfits, music, location, or guests point to the party meaning; school, coding, or science context points elsewhere.

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