functional

adjective

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func·tion·al | \ ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl

, -shə-nᵊl \

Definition of functional

1a : 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.

Other Words from functional Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Phrases Containing functional Learn More About functional

Examples of functional in a Sentence

They worked outside, so they preferred wearing functional clothes. 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 This Sephora bag is multi-functional, sturdy, has pouches and is lightweight. — Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 27 Apr. 2022 And, much like an outdoor rug, the best patio umbrellas are functional, beautiful, and tie a space together. — Christian Gollayan, Men's Health, 25 Apr. 2022 Made in New York, Of Mercer’s collection of functional, elevated, and chic basics are designed for women, by women. — Rachel King, Fortune, 22 Apr. 2022 These bags are affordable, multi-functional, and ship quickly, so there's really nothing to lose by pressing add to cart. — Carly Kulzer, PEOPLE.com, 17 Apr. 2022 Shaker furniture—highly functional, beautiful without ornamentation—has been having a long moment. — Hannah Goldfield, The New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2022 For travelers and commuters who prefer backpacks to briefcases and shoulder bags, Amazon shoppers have found their bag soulmate in the spacious, functional, and comfortable Lovevook Laptop Backpack. — Emily Belfiore, Travel + Leisure, 24 Mar. 2022 This functional – and beautiful – grill turns any campfire into a cooktop in seconds. — Breanna Wilson, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2022 It’s a combination designed to stoke a functional low-and-slow, all-day, get-things-done kind of buzz ($14 per four-pack). — Adam Tschorn, Los Angeles Times, 7 Dec. 2021 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'functional.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries Near functional

functionaire

functional

functional calculus

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Last Updated

12 May 2022

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“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functional. Accessed 18 May. 2022.

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More Definitions for functional

functional

adjective

func·tion·al | \ ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl

Medical Definition of functional

1a : 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