multipurpose

adjective

mul·​ti·​pur·​pose ˌməl-tē-ˈpər-pəs How to pronounce multipurpose (audio)
-ˌtī-
Synonyms of multipurposenext
: serving or able to serve more than one purpose
a multipurpose tool
multipurpose rooms
a multi-purpose cleaner

Examples of multipurpose in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Inside are classrooms, an office, praying halls, a multipurpose room, a library, a kitchen and a grocery store where kids frequently buy snacks after school. — Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026 The multipurpose arena in the heart of Fort Worth’s Cultural District may not be called Dickies in the future. — Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 June 2026 According to Bradford, a multipurpose tool like a Swiss army knife can handle a range of tasks, like cutting bandages, opening packaging, or performing minor repairs. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 1 May 2026 But this time, the multipurpose arena in Philadelphia that the 76ers share with the Flyers is already booked Tuesday night, with a Flyers home game. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for multipurpose

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of multipurpose was in 1869

Rhymes for multipurpose

See All Rhymes for multipurpose

Browse Nearby Words

multipronged
multipurpose
multiracial
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Multipurpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/multipurpose. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

multipurpose

adjective
mul·​ti·​pur·​pose
ˌməl-ti-ˈpər-pəs, 
-ˌtī-
: having more than one use
multipurpose furniture

More from Merriam-Webster on multipurpose

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for multipurpose

Nglish: Translation of multipurpose for Spanish Speakers

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