functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl 
-shə-nᵊl
1
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.
Synonyms
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
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
Phrases Containing functional
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.
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Kids Definition
functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfuŋ(k)-shnəl
-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
Medical Definition
functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl
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
More from Merriam-Webster on functional
Nglish: Translation of functional for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of functional for Arabic Speakers
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