1
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
2
as in useful
capable of being put to use or account
a functional knowledge of auto mechanics
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
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
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Recent Examples of functional
Upgrade your cat's nap time with this Bedsure pet bed that's equal parts warm, comfy and functional—thanks to its convertible, washable design.
—
Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 25 May 2026
This approach transforms atmospheric moisture from an electronic limitation into a functional energy source.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 24 May 2026
In addition, despite the recent fears of some users, Chromecast devices are still set to remain functional for the time being.
—Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 24 May 2026
With a functional button front, shirtdresses can double as a swim cover-up or lightweight layer on flights.
—Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 23 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for functional
Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 25 May 2026
This approach transforms atmospheric moisture from an electronic limitation into a functional energy source.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 24 May 2026
In addition, despite the recent fears of some users, Chromecast devices are still set to remain functional for the time being.
—Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 24 May 2026
With a functional button front, shirtdresses can double as a swim cover-up or lightweight layer on flights.
—Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 23 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for functional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for functional
Adjective
-
But building much larger vessels — the Defiant class is intended to displace roughly 30,000 to 40,000 tons — would only inflate costs and create fatter targets, without offering dramatically new operational capacity.—
Editorial,
Boston Herald,
30 May 2026
-
The entire Starship program, however, is far behind schedule, with 12 launches of the rocket in the past three years—some successful, some not, none qualifying the giant machine as anywhere close to operational.—
Jeffrey Kluger,
Time,
29 May 2026
Adjective
-
That first experience of European competition was a useful learning curve, but the team will have to adapt after reaching the knockout stages of the Europa League in 2023-24 by topping a group of four teams that also contained Marseille, Ajax and AEK Athens.—
Andy Naylor,
New York Times,
29 May 2026
-
Delta Business Traveler’s free program gives freelancers and small business owners access to discounts, travel perks and business offers that are actually useful.—
Jasmin Suknanan,
CNBC,
29 May 2026
Adjective
-
Going tomorrow, everyone’s available.—
Jose de Jesus Ortiz,
Los Angeles Times,
30 May 2026
-
Catcher Logan O’Hoppe didn’t challenge, even though the Angels had both of their challenges available.—
Jeff Fletcher,
Oc Register,
30 May 2026
Adjective
-
Exxon operates some of the wells directly and holds a financial, non-operating interest in the others.—
Rachel Nostrant,
Houston Chronicle,
26 Jan. 2026
-
Last year, though revenue and operating profit increased, non-operating red ink pushed the company into a full-year loss of NT$766 million, or $25 million.—
Russell Flannery,
Forbes.com,
26 Aug. 2025
Adjective
-
However, even Nvidia’s Huang has said Moore’s Law is no longer applicable to future chip development.—
Evelyn Cheng,
CNBC,
25 May 2026
-
Funniest moment of the season Not applicable!—
Steve Madeley,
New York Times,
25 May 2026
Adjective
-
Post-operative care is provided with a special kit containing shampoos, lotions, and medical products, and the clinic maintains high hygiene standards by sanitizing procedure rooms through ultraviolet technology.—
Wyles Daniel,
USA Today,
20 May 2026
-
And with knee surgeries, rehab is most important in the early stages of post-operative recovery.—
Jeff Fedotin,
Forbes.com,
20 May 2026
Adjective
-
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
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Collins says cleaning a functioning or newer dryer once every two years is sufficient to clear our major blocks and prevent more serious complications, such as clogs that can lead to fires.—
Kristine Gill,
Better Homes & Gardens,
19 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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This Vionic version feels polished enough for the office or dinner reservations, but still practical for airport days thanks to the easy slip-on design and stretchy strap.—
Chaise Sanders,
Travel + Leisure,
25 May 2026
-
The team is currently collaborating with various organizations to transition this technology into practical, real-world deployment.—
Mrigakshi Dixit,
Interesting Engineering,
25 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/functional. Accessed 30 May. 2026.
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