Pur″pose (?), n. [OF. purpos, pourpos, propos, L. propositum. See Propound.] 1. That which a person sets before himself as an object to be reached or accomplished; the end or aim to which the view is directed in any plan, measure, or exertion; view; aim; design; intention; plan.
He will his firste purpos modify. Chaucer.
As my eternal purpose hath decreed. Milton.
The flighty purpose never is o'ertook
Unless the deed go with it. Shak.
2. Proposal to another; discourse. Spenser.
3. Instance; example. L'Estrange.
In purpose, Of purpose, On purpose, with previous design; with the mind directed to that object; intentionally. On purpose is the form now generally used.
Syn. — design; end; intention; aim. See Design.