functional

adjective

func·​tion·​al ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shə-nᵊl
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function
the functional differences between the departments
b
: affecting physiological or psychological functions but not organic structure
functional heart disease
2
: used to contribute to the development or maintenance of a larger whole
functional and practical school courses
also : designed or developed chiefly from the point of view of use
The design of the building is not only functional but also beautiful.
3
: performing or able to perform a regular function
The flashlight was still functional after I had dropped it.
functionally
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnə-lē How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shə-nᵊl-ē
adverb

Examples of functional in a Sentence

The building's design is not only functional but also beautiful. The flashlight was still functional after I dropped it. The computer network is fully functional.
Recent Examples on the Web Nordstrom Rack is practically bursting with fashion-forward options that are still highly practical, functional, spacious, and comfortable to carry. Alexandra Domrongchai, Travel + Leisure, 22 Mar. 2024 It's named after an earlier, less functional screenshot tool that had been a fan favorite among Windows enthusiasts. PCMAG, 22 Mar. 2024 Haiti’s National Police may be the only fully functional state institution left. Caitlin Stephen Hu, CNN, 21 Mar. 2024 Apple has said its choices keep you safer, but the company’s actions make many chat messages less secure and less functional. Shira Ovide, Washington Post, 21 Mar. 2024 By creating visual interest through elevation changes, TimberTech’s composite decking creates open air rooms that establish functional spaces and maximize moments of rest and enjoyment. Sunset In Partnership With Yardzen, Sunset Plant Collection, Terra, and Timbertech, Sunset Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024 Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin' Tunes Play Gym & Activity Mat $46 Bright, colorful, and functional, this play gym will become a versatile family favorite. Maya Polton, Parents, 8 Mar. 2024 Amazon’s fashion department is home to tons of cute and functional crossbody purses, including styles from top brands like Coach and JW Pei. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 6 Mar. 2024 All are self-taught and create everything from playful reproductions of mundane household staples (such as cereal boxes and telephones) to functional décor like vases and frames. Alexa Brazilian, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'functional.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of functional was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near functional

Cite this Entry

“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functional. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

functional

adjective
func·​tion·​al ˈfuŋ(k)-shnəl How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function
b
: affecting bodily functions but not structure
functional heart disease
2
: designed or developed chiefly from the point of view of use
functional clothes
functional writing
3
: performing or able to perform a regular function
functionally
-shnə-lē How to pronounce functional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl-ē
adverb

Medical Definition

functional

adjective
func·​tion·​al ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl How to pronounce functional (audio)
1
a
: of, connected with, or being a function compare structural sense 1
b
: affecting physiological or psychological functions but not organic structure
functional heart disease
a functional psychosis
compare organic sense 1b
2
: performing or able to perform a regular function
functionally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on functional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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