WordGarden.iofunctional
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈʌŋkʃənəl/
US
- /ˈfəŋkʃənəl/
Meanings
Adjective
practical, useful, or able to work as intended
relating to mathematical functions
using functions as the main organizing model in programming
More meaningsFewer meanings
relating to how a body part or system works, especially apart from visible structure
Beyond the definition
Something that's functional works the way it's supposed to. It gets the job done. Think of a kitchen with everything you need to cook, or a relationship that works because both people help and support each other. It does not have to be beautiful or fancy; it just has to work. A simple tool can be highly functional even if it is not stylish. If your car is functional, you can drive it from point A to point B. If a person is described as functional, they may still be having a hard time, but they are able to manage daily life.
The word comes from the idea of "performing a function," so anything that fulfills its purpose can be described as functional. You might say a simple design is functional because it is easy to use. You could also describe someone who stays organized and gets things done as "highly functional."
"Functional" describes something that is capable of performing its designated task or purpose effectively. It emphasizes practicality and usefulness over aesthetics, though something can certainly be both beautiful and functional! Think about a well-designed chair—it's not just pretty to look at; it's also comfortable and supports your weight, making it functional.
The term is widely used in many contexts. In design, "functional art" refers to objects like pottery or furniture that are both aesthetically pleasing and serve a practical purpose. In medicine, "functional" can describe how well organs or body systems are working; for example, a "functional MRI" (fMRI) assesses brain activity by measuring changes in blood flow.
In everyday language, we use it to describe things that simply work. A functional website is easy to navigate and provides the information you need. A functional family supports its members emotionally and practically. The term can also be used to describe someone who appears outwardly normal but may be struggling internally; a "high-functioning" individual might manage their responsibilities well despite underlying anxiety or health challenges.
The root of "functional" lies in the word "function," meaning the purpose for which something is designed or exists. So, if something functions properly, it's functional. It is ultimately about capability and effectiveness—whether we're talking about a tool, a system, a person, or an idea.
Examples
- 1
Working device
The old printer is still functional.
- 2
Software update
After the update, the app was fully functional again.
- 3
Kitchen
The kitchen is small, but it's functional.
- 4
Practical design
The design is simple and functional rather than decorative.
- Phrasefunctional rather than decorative
useful, not mainly made to look nice
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Office furniture
We need office furniture that's functional and easy to clean.
- 6
Personal state
I haven't had coffee yet, so I'm not fully functional.
- 7
Team effectiveness
The team isn't perfect, but it's still functional.
- 8
Family stability
He grew up in a fairly functional family.
- Phrasea functional family
a family that works in a healthy or stable way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- nonfunctional
- decorative
Used with (collocations)
- functional design
- fully functional
- functional requirements
- functional but not beautiful
Word family
Explore
- ergonomic
- form follows function
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- functionalnounadjective
Forms
- functionalspluralnounadjective