FUNCTIONAL Synonyms: 118 Similar and Opposite Words

functional

adjective

ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl

Definition of functional

as in operational

being in effective operation I don't think that vending machine is functional, so don't put money into it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in useful

capable of being put to use or account a functional knowledge of auto mechanics

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in available

capable of or suitable for being used for a particular purpose a very functional kitchen utensil for peeling potatoes

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of functional Physicists are nowhere close to constructing a functional theory of this form, much less finding hard evidence that our universe works this way. — Quanta Magazine, 25 Sep. 2026 Companies have organized themselves in functional silos, and this is a cross-functional technology. — Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 25 Sep. 2026 The three styles create the most functional fall outfit combo. — Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026 The first collection, featuring performance fabrics, studio-ready silhouettes and functional layers, includes six styles for men and 12 styles for women. — David Moin, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for functional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for functional

Adjective

As of June, 33 data centres had been completed and were operational, 68 were under construction, and 41 were proposed.

— Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 24 Sep. 2026
Their data proved that LEU fuel could meet strict international safety standards across all operational setups.

— Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of operational

Adjective

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are also available, such as herbal medicine consultations and a pain management program.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026
Throughout much of the 20th century, Washington often quietly intervened to shape the political choices available to Brazilian governments, most notably in its support for the 1964 coup.

— Andre Pagliarini, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026

Definition of available

Adjective

That sits on the books of the league’s 32 Equity investment arm, and 1/32 of any gains or losses in the entity flow through the Packers’ non-operating income.

— Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 24 July 2026
True, some if the upside surprise has come from non-operating gains on holdings in huge, private AI pioneers, but not all of it.

— Michael Santoli, CNBC, 2 June 2026

Definition of operating

Adjective

Additionally, quantitative and qualitative analytical skills and systems that are applicable serve to internally strengthen an organization’s impact and provide a way to ensure rigor while keeping the mission impact at the center.

— Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026
In the years that followed, Urbagestion argued that Abascal’s retention of the apartment was invalid and that the contract’s timing was no longer applicable.

— Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of applicable

Adjective

West had coronary artery disease and died due to a combination of the pre-existing illness and post-operative complications a day after having cosmetic surgery.

— Michael Saponara, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026
Bernadette Peters will play Coco Van Beck, the aforementioned queen of San Francisco society who enlists private detective Julie (Estrada) and her operative Charles on the case.

— Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of operative

Adjective

Gemini May 21 – June 20 A creative idea may attract more enthusiasm than practical support.

— Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 25 Sep. 2026
In this final stretch, Ryan said, one of the biggest practical challenges has been competing with data centers for skilled union electricians, about 200 of whom are working on the site today.

— Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of practical

Adjective

Parenting a child comes with unique stressors, from small daily hassles like getting kids out the door on time for school to the bigger assignment of raising a functioning, happy and healthy human.

— Daniel M. Bagner, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026
Two years later, that land was a functioning commercial development with healthcare services, co-working space, community banking and retail tenants serving a neighborhood that had none of those things before.

— Srinivasulu Mupparaju, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026