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 Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin' Tunes Play Gym & Activity Mat $46 Bright, colorful, and functional, this play gym will become a versatile family favorite. Maya Polton, Parents, 8 Mar. 2024 Amazon’s fashion department is home to tons of cute and functional crossbody purses, including styles from top brands like Coach and JW Pei. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 6 Mar. 2024 All are self-taught and create everything from playful reproductions of mundane household staples (such as cereal boxes and telephones) to functional décor like vases and frames. Alexa Brazilian, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2024 Potential for Harm Although Yadav warns that too much of some vitamins can be toxic, overdosing via vitamin patches doesn’t seem to be a realistic fear, as Sam Tejada, functional medical expert at Liquivida Wellness Center, can attest. Rachel Murphy, Verywell Health, 1 Mar. 2024 Today’s great photo is from Times photographer Allen J. Schaben at the Claremont home of a woodworker who creates one-of-a-kind, functional furniture pieces that decorate his home. Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2024 The steering system was also functional, with no damage found. Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 29 Feb. 2024 Convenience Concepts Palm Beach Spindle Table End tables not only accentuate furniture but are highly functional. Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2024 The best coffee table for your sectional will be functional for your space while complementing the colors and textures already in your home. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Feb. 2024

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 19 Mar. 2024.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!