Search a word

purport

Definition

noun: the main or general meaning of something (such as a speech or a person's actions)
noun: meaning conveyed, professed, or implied
verb: to claim to be or do a particular thing when this claim may not be true
verb: to have the often specious appearance of being, intending, or claiming (something implied or inferred)
followed by 'to + verb'
synonyms: import, meaning, tenor

Examples

The report 'purports to be' objective. [=it claims to be objective, but it may not be]
The letter was not read aloud, but all present were informed of its 'purport'.
The program 'purports to meet' the needs of gifted students.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

(..) 'Cause every time I come in here, I think less of me. Why? Because I'm a fraud. No. I purport to be a man of the mind. I've been such a-a vocal champion of The Singularity, but how can I leave my body behind (..)
2016 TvShow: The Big Bang Theory Title: The Solder Excursion Diversion Season: 9 Episode 19