functional

adjective

func·​tion·​al ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shə-nᵊl
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function
the functional differences between the departments
b
: affecting physiological or psychological functions but not organic structure
functional heart disease
2
: used to contribute to the development or maintenance of a larger whole
functional and practical school courses
also : designed or developed chiefly from the point of view of use
The design of the building is not only functional but also beautiful.
3
: performing or able to perform a regular function
The flashlight was still functional after I had dropped it.
functionally
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnə-lē How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shə-nᵊl-ē
adverb

Examples of functional in a Sentence

The building's design is not only functional but also beautiful. The flashlight was still functional after I dropped it. The computer network is fully functional.
Recent Examples on the Web Defined by the double-breasted design and functional details like the notched lapel collar, epaulets on the shoulders, storm flaps, and tie belt, the trench coat is now probably most often thought of as being a water-resistant raincoat. Paula Lee, Glamour, 29 Nov. 2023 There are also two accessories, an oversized gold bobby pin and a functional gold comb, which come in a matching cool-gold finish. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 28 Nov. 2023 Any agreement must end Israel’s blockade and functional imprisonment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Matthew Duss, Foreign Affairs, 27 Nov. 2023 This gorgeous tote from Madewell is crafted with a luxe leather and features a magnetic closure at the top of the bag, complete with a functional interior pocket and a convenient shoulder strap that can be extended to crossbody length. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 27 Nov. 2023 Of course, aesthetics are key, but much like the kitchen, a functional bar is a household workhorse, which is important to keep in mind when choosing materials. Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 26 Nov. 2023 Spotify’s decision to count functional content at 20% of the rate for music tracks is the culmination of nearly a year’s worth of bad press for rain sounds and the like. Elias Leight, Billboard, 21 Nov. 2023 The adorable six-piece play set includes a pint-sized broom, mop, duster, brush and dustpan (all functional), as well as a stand to keep organized. Buy Side Staff, wsj.com, 18 Nov. 2023 Shanley’s play is now 40 years old, and everything from the set’s functional jukebox and hazy string lights to the ubiquity of cigarettes recalls an earlier decade. Alex Jhamb Burns, Vogue, 15 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'functional.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of functional was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near functional

Cite this Entry

“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functional. Accessed 8 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

functional

adjective
func·​tion·​al ˈfuŋ(k)-shnəl How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function
b
: affecting bodily functions but not structure
functional heart disease
2
: designed or developed chiefly from the point of view of use
functional clothes
functional writing
3
: performing or able to perform a regular function
functionally
-shnə-lē How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl-ē
adverb

Medical Definition

functional

adjective
func·​tion·​al ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl How to pronounce functional (audio)
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function compare structural sense 1
b
: affecting physiological or psychological functions but not organic structure
functional heart disease
a functional psychosis
compare organic sense 1b
2
: performing or able to perform a regular function
functionally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on functional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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