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
Brand founder, Amy Zurek, spent a year studying crossbody bags in order to develop this harmonious and functional shape.
—
Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2025
Moms say the bag is functional and spacious for their items and some of their kids’ stuff.
—Katrina Cossey, Parents, 4 Feb. 2025
This corduroy blazer is a fashionable yet functional option with a refined notched lapel and single-button silhouette.
—Clara McMahon, People.com, 2 Feb. 2025
Cute and functional, the round charger plugs into the wall and hides a four-foot-long retractable USB-C cable.
—Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 31 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for functional 
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.
Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2025
Moms say the bag is functional and spacious for their items and some of their kids’ stuff.
—Katrina Cossey, Parents, 4 Feb. 2025
This corduroy blazer is a fashionable yet functional option with a refined notched lapel and single-button silhouette.
—Clara McMahon, People.com, 2 Feb. 2025
Cute and functional, the round charger plugs into the wall and hides a four-foot-long retractable USB-C cable.
—Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 31 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for functional
Dictionary Entries Near functional
Cite this Entry
“Functional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/functional. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.
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