functionality

noun

func·​tion·​al·​i·​ty ˌfəŋ(k)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce functionality (audio)
plural functionalities
: the quality or state of being functional
a design that is admired both for its beauty and for its functionality
especially : the set of functions or capabilities associated with computer software or hardware or an electronic device
data management functionalities such as data integrity, security, recoverability and manageability Josephine Cheng and Jane Xu

Examples of functionality in a Sentence

a design that is admired both for its beauty and for its functionality The cameras are comparable in price and functionality. a device with new functionalities
Recent Examples on the Web Firms including Google and Microsoft offer similar functionality, letting users nominate someone to inherit their account after a period of inactivity. Joel Khalili, WIRED, 10 Apr. 2024 The whole thing has just as much functionality as the thin useless scarf, another mid-’00s trend which saw Kate Moss, Lenny Kravitz and Hilary Duff drape floss-thin, knee-scraping bits of fabric around their necks, often with a strange graphic tee and a newsies cap. Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 10 Apr. 2024 Best for: Moms who love to experiment in the kitchen and appreciate cookware that offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Bethany Braun-Silva, ABC News, 8 Apr. 2024 YouTube will be adding other functionality to its Coachella experience too, with the ability to swap audio between stages in multiview, live chats with other fans, and QR codes for easy merchandise purchases. Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 4 Apr. 2024 Because of this, business leaders who don’t put a high priority on both the beauty and functionality of their websites are at a distinct disadvantage among their competition, and potential customers may not stick around long with a poor user experience. Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 26 Mar. 2024 In general, most streaming devices are going to be pretty similar in terms of functionality, with access to the major and niche services available. K. Thor Jensen, PCMAG, 1 Apr. 2024 The nightstand comes fully assembled — simply unbox it and enjoy its fashionable functionality right away. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 31 Mar. 2024 Supply chain software firms have been working feverishly to incorporate this functionality into their solutions. Steve Banker, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'functionality.' 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

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of functionality was in 1836

Dictionary Entries Near functionality

Cite this Entry

“Functionality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functionality. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on functionality

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!