Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The primary function refers to the main or most important purpose or role of a particular organ or system.
Related terms
Secondary function: Refers to additional roles or purposes that an organ or system may have apart from its primary function.
Tertiary function: Relates to even further roles or purposes that an organ or system may serve, usually less significant than both primary and secondary functions.
Vital function: Describes critical functions that are necessary for survival and proper functioning of an organism.