Definitions
1.noun(often with of, typically of adverse results) The source of, or reason for, an event or action; that which produces or effects a result."They identified a burst pipe as the cause of the flooding."
2.noun(especially with for and a bare noun) Sufficient reason for a state, as of emotion."The end of the war was a cause for celebration."
3.nounA goal, aim or principle, especially one which transcends purely selfish ends.
4.nounSake; interest; advantage.
5.nounAny subject of discussion or debate; a matter; an affair.
6.nounA suit or action in court; any legal process by which a party endeavors to obtain his claim, or what he regards as his right; case; ground of action.
7.verbTo set off an event or action."The lightning caused thunder."
8.verb(ditransitive) To actively produce as a result, by means of force or authority."His dogged determination caused the fundraising to be successful."
9.verbTo assign or show cause; to give a reason; to make excuse.