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 The epitome of effortlessly stylish, this flowy maxi dress features functional pockets and zero wrinkles. — Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2026 Keeping the layout simple and classic allows the space to feel more functional and open. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 15 Aug. 2026 Your vehicle will stay fully functional, fully safe, whatever the duration of the ownership is. — Robert Ferris, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2026 Adaptable cabinet designs are making hardworking spaces more functional and comfortable for all abilities. — Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for functional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for functional

Adjective

Disney will also provide operational oversight though the new park will be operated by Miral which is contracting Disney's Imagineers – architects named after their imaginative use of engineering – to design it.

— Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026
Announced on August 13, the project will use Firefly’s Elytra orbital vehicle to approach, examine, and remove spacecraft nearing the end of their operational lives.

— Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of operational

Adjective

Toilet seats designed for American Standard models can also have some useful features, such as a slow-close function that protects the bowl from damage.

— BestReviews, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026
His shoot-first mindset adds a useful dimension to Tottenham’s attack, particularly when lining up alongside Dominic Solanke, a natural facilitator, and Kudus, who was Tottenham’s primary creative outlet in the frontline before his injury.

— Elias Burke, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of useful

Adjective

Newer data is available, but the most up-to-date version of the survey hasn’t been around long enough for researchers to know participants’ cause and time of death.

— Sandee LaMotte, CNN Money, 12 Aug. 2026
Booze in the form of cocktails, beer, and wine is available from the lobby bar during those same room service hours.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Aug. 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

Women considering enlistment are generally more likely to ask practical questions about pregnancy policies, hygiene and whether barracks were coed, recruiters and women currently serving explained.

— Steven Beynon, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026
Testing includes blood work, genetic screening, ultrasounds, a DEXA body-composition scan, cardiovascular assessments, and numerous other diagnostics, with every result explained immediately and paired with practical recommendations.

— Ken Gawrych, Robb Report, 16 Aug. 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