Definition of utility

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< utilitarianism

utility program >

u·til·i·ty    (y-tl-t) KEY 

NOUN:
pl. u·til·i·ties

1. The quality or condition of being useful; usefulness: "I have always doubted the utility of these conferences on disarmament" (Winston S. Churchill).
2. A useful article or device.
3. 1. A public utility.
   2. A commodity or service, such as electricity, water, or public transportation, that is provided by a public utility.
4. Computer Science A utility program.

ADJECTIVE:

1. Used, serving, or working in several capacities as needed, especially:
   1. Prepared to play any of the smaller theatrical roles on short notice: a utility cast member.
   2. Capable of playing as a substitute in any of several positions: a utility infielder.
2. Designed for various often heavy-duty practical uses: a utility knife; a utility vehicle.
3. Raised or kept for the production of a farm product rather than for show or as pets: utility livestock.
4. Of the lowest U.S. Government grade: utility beef.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English utilite, from Old French, from Latin tilits, from tilis, useful, from t, to use