cause

(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.
(noun): (especially with for and a bare noun) Sufficient reason for a state, as of emotion.
(noun): A goal, aim or principle, especially one which transcends purely selfish ends.
(noun): Sake; interest; advantage.
(noun): Any subject of discussion or debate; a matter; an affair.
(noun): A 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.
(verb): To set off an event or action.
(verb): (ditransitive) To actively produce as a result, by means of force or authority.
(verb): To assign or show cause; to give a reason; to make excuse.