kɔ:z n. & v. --n. 1 a
that which produces an
effect, or gives
rise to an
action,
phenomenon, or
condition. b a
person or
thing that occasions
something. c a
reason or
motive; a ground that
may be
held to
justify something (no cause
for complaint). 2 a reason adjudged
adequate (show cause). 3 a
principle,
belief, or
purpose which is advocated or supported (faithful to
the cause). 4 a a
matter to be settled at
law. b an individual's case offered at law (plead a cause). 5 the
side taken by
any party in a
dispute. --v.tr. 1 be the cause
of,
produce,
make happen (caused a commotion). 2 (foll. by to + infin.)
induce (caused me to
smile; caused it to be done). øin the cause of to
maintain,
defend, or
support (in the cause of justice). make
common cause
with join the side of. øøcausable adj. causeless adj. causer n. [ME f. OF f. L causa]