to employ something or someone in order to do a job or reach a goal
You can use my pen to sign the form.
The firefighter used a ladder to reach the second-floor window.
✦ From Old French ‘user’, from Latin ‘ūtī’ meaning ‘to employ, enjoy’.
to consume a supply or amount of something
This printer uses a lot of ink.
Our old heater used too much electricity, so we replaced it.
the act of using something or the state of being used
The playground is closed, so the swings are not in use.
Regular use of sunscreen protects your skin.
a purpose or function that something serves
Is there any use for this broken umbrella?
Glass jars have many uses, like storing herbs or screws.
to treat someone selfishly as a tool for your own benefit
He felt hurt because she only used him for free rides.
Don’t let anyone use you to advance their career.
the benefit or advantage gained from something
It’s no use arguing; the decision is final.
What use is a key without a lock?
simple past tense and past participle of "use": employed something for a purpose
We used the map to find the hiking trail.
She used her creativity to decorate the room.
