cause

Definition of cause

Pronunciation

• (RP) enPR: kôz, IPA: /k�"ːz/, SAMPA: /kO:z/
• Audio (US) ^[?]
• Rhymes: -�"ːz
• Homophone: caws; cores (non-rhotic dialects)

Noun

cause (plural causes)

1. The source or reason of an event or action
2. A goal, aim or principle, especially one which transcends purely selfish ends.
   He is fighting for a just cause.

Synonyms

• (source or reason): reason, source

Verb

cause (third-person singular simple present causes, present participle causing, simple past and past participle caused)

1. To set off an event or action.
   
   The explosion caused a panic.
   
   
2. To actively produce as a result, by means of force or authority.
   
   The explosion caused much damage to the building.