1
: designed to have a practical use
The building's design is not only functional but also beautiful.
functional and decorative pottery
workers wearing functional clothing
2
medical
: affecting the way a part of your body works
a functional heart disorder
3
: working properly
The flashlight was still functional after I dropped it.
The computer network is fully functional.
4
: of or relating to the use or function of something
the functional differences between the departments
Cite this Entry
“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/functional. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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