use

Dictionary definition · use

the act of using"he warned against the use of narcotic drugs"
what something is used for"the function of an auger is to bore holes"
a particular service"he put his knowledge to good use"
(economics) the utilization of economic goods to satisfy needs or in manufacturing"the consumption of energy has increased steadily"
(psychology) an automatic pattern of behavior in reaction to a specific situation; may be inherited or acquired through frequent repetition"owls have nocturnal habits"
exerting shrewd or devious influence especially for one's own advantage"his manipulation of his friends was scandalous"

put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose"use your head!"
take or consume (regularly or habitually)"She uses drugs rarely"
seek or achieve an end by using to one's advantage"She uses her influential friends to get jobs"
avail oneself to"apply a principle"
habitually do something or be in a certain state or place (use only in the past tense)"She used to call her mother every week but now she calls only occasionally"
use up (resources or materials)"this car consumes a lot of gas"

Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).