noun \ˈkz\

: 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


Full Definition of CAUSE

a :  a reason for an action or condition :  motive
b :  something that brings about an effect or a result
d :  sufficient reason <discharged for cause>
a :  a ground of legal action
b :  case
:  a matter or question to be decided
a :  a principle or movement militantly defended or supported
b :  a charitable undertaking <for a good cause>
cause·less \-ləs\ adjective

Examples of CAUSE

  1. His symptoms had no apparent physical causes.
  2. She is the cause of all their problems.
  3. The medicine was prescribed without good cause.
  4. Their marriage was a cause for celebration.
  5. I can support a cause that means something to me.
  6. I'm willing to donate money as long as it's for a good cause.

Origin of CAUSE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin causa
First Known Use: 13th century

Rhymes with CAUSE



: to make (something) happen or exist : to be the cause of (something)

: to make (someone) feel, have, or do something


Full Definition of CAUSE

transitive verb
:  to serve as a cause or occasion of <cause an accident>
:  to compel by command, authority, or force <caused him to resign>
caus·er noun

Examples of CAUSE

  1. He swerved and caused an accident.
  2. The flood caused great hardship.
  3. The illness is caused by a virus.
  4. The flood caused the town great hardship.
  5. You caused us a lot of extra work.

First Known Use of CAUSE

14th century


Next Word in the Dictionary: 'causePrevious Word in the Dictionary: causatumAll Words Near: cause
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