Thing or purpose (6)
I believe the answer is:
object
This clue is a double definition.
'thing' is the first definition.
(I know that thing can be written as object)
'purpose' is the second definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
(Other definitions for object that I've seen before include "Protest, disapprove" , "Protest; purpose; thing" , "Make protest, disagree" , "Sporting description of ball" , "Express dislike - article" .)