functional
FUHNGKT-shuh-nuhl
Functional (adj) means working properly; in usable, operating condition. Example: “The lift is functional again after the engineer repaired it this morning.”
adj
1
Working properly; in usable, operating condition.
"The lift is functional again after the engineer repaired it this morning."
"Only two of the four hobs on the cooker are still functional."
"The old radio is still functional after fifty years."
2
Designed for practical use rather than appearance.
"She prefers functional kitchens with plenty of storage over fancy ones."
"The hostel rooms are small and functional, with just a bed and a desk."
"The office furniture is functional but not stylish."
How to use functional
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWorking, or built to be practical and useful rather than decorative.
Common pairings
fully functional
functional design
a functional relationship
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Word forms
- Plural
- functionals
- Comparative
- more functional
- Superlative
- most functional
Fill the gap
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The lift is _____ again after the engineer repaired it this morning.
Etymology
From function + the adjective suffix -al.
Synonyms
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usable
practical
serviceable
workable
effective
functioning
working
utilitarian
in working order
operational
running like a top
up
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for functional
coronal
rational
diagonal
personal
seasonal
national
optional
regional
hormonal
hexagonal
fictional
emotional
See all rhymes for functional →
Frequently asked questions
What does “functional” mean?
The word “functional” means working properly; in usable, operating condition. In plain terms, working, or built to be practical and useful rather than decorative.
How do you pronounce “functional”?
“Functional” is pronounced FUHNGKT-shuh-nuhl (/ˈfʌŋkt͡ʃənəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “functional” in a sentence?
Here is “functional” used in a sentence: “The old radio is still functional after fifty years.”
What is another word for “functional”?
Words with a similar meaning to “functional” include functioning, working, utilitarian, in working order, operational and running like a top.
What is the opposite of “functional”?
The opposite of “functional” — its antonyms — are dysfunctional, non-functional, nonfunctional, unfunctional and organic.
What part of speech is “functional”?
“Functional” is an adjective.
Is “functional” a common word?
“Functional” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “functional” have?
“Functional” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: working properly; in usable, operating condition.
What is the difference between "functional" and "operational"?
Both mean something is working, but "functional" stresses that a thing is in usable, working condition and can perform its purpose. "Operational" often stresses that a system or machine is actively up and running, especially in technical or military contexts.
What is the difference between "functional" and "practical"?
"Functional" describes something designed for use rather than appearance, or something that simply works. "Practical" stresses being sensible, useful, and effective in real situations, so a design can be functional yet still be judged on how practical it is day to day.
What is the difference between "functional" and "dysfunctional"?
They are opposites. "Functional" means working properly and able to perform its purpose, while "dysfunctional" means not working as it should, whether describing a machine, a system, or a relationship.
What is the difference between "functional" and "functioning"?
"Functioning" usually means currently working at this moment, as in "a functioning engine." "Functional" more broadly means designed to work or capable of working, and it can also mean built for practical use rather than looks.
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