functional
adjective
func·tion·al
ˈfəŋ(k)-sh(ə-)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
Participants will spend time practicing functional repairs in situ, and laying out replacement timbers using 'old school mill rule' techniques thought to have been used during the original construction of the barn.
—
Deb Harvell, arkansasonline.com, 27 Oct. 2024
However, trimming further would cut into most companies’ functional muscle.
—Thomas Lah, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024
The diversity of the human genome leads to the many functional differences seen between people.
—New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2024
Top scores went to shoes with a functional yet stylish design that could seamlessly be integrated into everyday activities.
—Trina Gray, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for functional 
Deb Harvell, arkansasonline.com, 27 Oct. 2024
However, trimming further would cut into most companies’ functional muscle.
—Thomas Lah, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024
The diversity of the human genome leads to the many functional differences seen between people.
—New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2024
Top scores went to shoes with a functional yet stylish design that could seamlessly be integrated into everyday activities.
—Trina Gray, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for functional
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 5 Nov. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share