functional

adjective

func·​tion·​al ˈfəŋ(k)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce functional (audio)
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 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 Meanwhile, for spring 2025, founder Luisa Dames continued to build on her successful formula of functional, sleek designs and sweet-spot prices with new takes on the brand’s minimal designs and graphic additions. Sandra Salibian, WWD, 2 Oct. 2024 Government officials have noted that some of the tests rolling out may appear to be expired, but are still functional. Liam Rappleye, Detroit Free Press, 28 Sep. 2024 That means helping automakers make decisions that will boost the business, appeal to consumers, communicate the brand’s ideals, and support the functional product experience without hurting the everyday experience in our cities and towns. Paul Amitai, Fortune, 27 Sep. 2024 Only non-sensitive metadata, like modification dates, country code for address formatting, favorite markings, and password hints, are stored unencrypted for necessary functional purposes. PCMAG, 27 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for functional 

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 14 Oct. 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
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