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 Contrary to the common myth that bats are blind, most bats have functional vision and can see shapes, light and movement. — Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 24 July 2026 While the outcome may also be a welcome aesthetic change, the motivation is often functional—relief from discomfort during movement, chafing during exercise, pinching in clothing, pain with intimacy, and recurrent infections. — Anonymous, Allure, 23 July 2026 This approach keeps cabinet doors and drawers functional inside the simulator. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 July 2026 Replace casual decor with tasteful artwork and functional displays. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for functional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for functional

Adjective

This can lead to safety and operational concerns that require vigilance to ensure the protection of all meeting participants.

— David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026
By identifying potential bottlenecks and operational risks in advance, the company expects to improve efficiency while lowering costs and reducing rework.

— Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 25 July 2026

Definition of operational

Adjective

Review social media posts Social media platforms and patient reviews can be a useful tool before visiting for a consultation.

— Ella Moore July 23, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026
Pushing up, squeezing play and trying to regain the ball in advanced positions is a perfectly viable and often successful strategy, particularly when treated as a useful add-on to quality in possession.

— Michael Cox, New York Times, 22 July 2026

Definition of useful

Adjective

That’s attributed largely to Miami’s position as the largest short-term rental market among World Cup hosts, with 42,700 available listings in June.

— Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026
The first 100 guests will receive a free two-piece chicken-leg and thigh meal — no purchase necessary, only available inside the restaurant.

— Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 22 July 2026

Definition of available

Adjective

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
Exxon operates some of the wells directly and holds a financial, non-operating interest in the others.

— Rachel Nostrant, Houston Chronicle, 26 Jan. 2026

Definition of operating

Adjective

This work offers timeless wisdom and principles on strategy, adaptability, and self-mastery, applicable to warfare, politics, and business alike.

— Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Skokie will use an applicable $600,000 grant previously awarded from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to pay for the improvements, along with additional funding from this year’s Capital Improvement Project budget.

— Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026

Definition of applicable

Adjective

Splatoon Raiders ditches the series' trademark, competitive multiplayer shooting, to focus entirely on single-player and co-operative raids.

— Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 23 July 2026
While some experts remain cautious about banks' long-term commitment, stablecoin on-chain volume is rapidly increasing, with the GENIUS Act's January 2027 operative date marking a crucial future milestone for the industry.

— Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Definition of operative

Adjective

And the park once held a record for the country’s smallest functioning post office, a groovy dome hiding a real postal employee.

— John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 13 July 2026
The location had critical issues with non-functioning refrigeration units, which led to food being stored at unsafe temperatures, city officials said.

— Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 May 2026