functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl 
-shə-nᵊl
1
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.
Synonyms
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
This process ensures the iPad is fully functional with any minor cosmetic imperfections addressed.
—
Stack Commerce, Popular Science, 4 Apr. 2024
Now the kitchen is modernized and more functional for the growing family.
—Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
These cutting boards are stylish, functional, and are finished with a food-safe wood oil to enhance longevity.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
Also, in 1961, Lorraine Kraus successfully incorporated functional DNA into a mammalian cell.
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Freezer bowl ice cream makers are functional and yield great results, but typically, they’re best used for one batch at a time since the bowl needs to be frozen between each usage.
—Laura Denby, Peoplemag, 28 Mar. 2024
In lieu of happy-hour drinks at a bar, some functional beverages are positioned as something to gather around.
—Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 28 Mar. 2024
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
Stack Commerce, Popular Science, 4 Apr. 2024
Now the kitchen is modernized and more functional for the growing family.
—Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
These cutting boards are stylish, functional, and are finished with a food-safe wood oil to enhance longevity.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
Also, in 1961, Lorraine Kraus successfully incorporated functional DNA into a mammalian cell.
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Freezer bowl ice cream makers are functional and yield great results, but typically, they’re best used for one batch at a time since the bowl needs to be frozen between each usage.
—Laura Denby, Peoplemag, 28 Mar. 2024
In lieu of happy-hour drinks at a bar, some functional beverages are positioned as something to gather around.
—Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 28 Mar. 2024
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
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.
Dictionary Entries Near functional
Cite this Entry
“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functional. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfuŋ(k)-shnəl
-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
Medical Definition
functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl
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
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