adj
Uncommon
dysfunctional
Dysfunctional (adj) means not working properly; unable to function in a normal or healthy way. Example: “They grew up in a dysfunctional household full of shouting matches.”
adj
1
Not working properly; unable to function in a normal or healthy way.
"They grew up in a dysfunctional household full of shouting matches."
"The printer has been completely dysfunctional since the power surge."
How to use dysfunctional
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBroken or unhealthy in how it operates — often used about families, relationships, or organisations.
Common pairings
dysfunctional family
dysfunctional relationship
dysfunctional system
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more dysfunctional
- Superlative
- most dysfunctional
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They grew up in a _____ household full of shouting matches.
Etymology
From "dysfunction" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-al".
Synonyms
View more →
nonadaptive
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for dysfunctional
coronal
rational
diagonal
personal
seasonal
national
optional
regional
hormonal
hexagonal
fictional
emotional
See all rhymes for dysfunctional →
Frequently asked questions
What does “dysfunctional” mean?
The word “dysfunctional” means not working properly; unable to function in a normal or healthy way. In plain terms, broken or unhealthy in how it operates — often used about families, relationships, or organisations.
How do you use “dysfunctional” in a sentence?
Here is “dysfunctional” used in a sentence: “They grew up in a dysfunctional household full of shouting matches.”
What part of speech is “dysfunctional”?
“Dysfunctional” is an adjective.
Is “dysfunctional” a common word?
“Dysfunctional” is an uncommon word in modern English.
