proper function

noun

, Mathematics.

1. eigenfunction.

Word History and Origins

Origin of proper function¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Her proper function, like Mary Magdalene's sister, Martha, is to wash feet.

From The Daily Beast

In other words, what is the proper function of play, with respect not to youth merely, but to all mankind?

From Project Gutenberg

The proper function of the teacher is to guide the student in developing along the two lines.

From Project Gutenberg

This natural gift must be developed by exercise in the ear's proper function,—listening to sounds.

From Project Gutenberg

As soon as food enters the stomach, its nerves are excited to perform their proper function of stimulating the muscles.

From Project Gutenberg

Each god exercised his own proper function in that tomb which was a reproduction in small of the regions of the other world.

From Project Gutenberg