Word Explorer

Functional

/ˈfʌŋk(t)ʃnəl/

A function that takes a function as its argument; More precisely: A function y=f(x) whose argument x varies in a space of (real valued, complex valued) functions and whose value belongs to a monodimensional space. An example: the definite integration of integrable real functions in a real interval.

Full Dictionary Entry

📖 Definitions of "Functional"

noun

1
A function that takes a function as its argument; More precisely: A function y=f(x) whose argument x varies in a space of (real valued, complex valued) functions and whose value belongs to a monodimensional space. An example: the definite integration of integrable real functions in a real interval.
2
A scalar-valued linear function on a vector space.
3
An object encapsulating a function pointer (or equivalent).

adjective

1
In good working order.
2
Useful; serving a purpose, fulfilling a function
"That sculpture is not merely artistic, but also functional: it can be used as a hatrack."
3
Only for functional purposes, notably in architecture
"A functional construction element generally must meet higher technical but lower aesthetical requirements"
4
Having semantics defined purely in terms of mathematical functions, without side-effects.

🔄 Synonyms of "Functional"

14 synonyms found via WordNet and Google Books.

Word	Definition
operativenoun	Functional, in working order.
practicalnoun	Relating to, or based on, practice or action rather than theory or hypothesis.
useful	Having a practical or beneficial use.
utilitariannoun	Practical and functional, present for use, not just for show.
runningnoun	The activity of running as a form of exercise, as a sport, or for any other reason.
operational	Functioning and ready for use.
operable	Able to be operated or used.
functioningnoun	functional, working
structuralnoun	Of, relating to, or having structure.
serviceable	In condition for use.
usable	Capable of being used.
workingnoun	(usually in the plural) Operation; action.
useable	Alternative spelling of usable. [Capable of being used.]
in working order	—

↔️ Antonyms of "Functional"

Words with the opposite meaning.

Word	Definition
organicnoun	(agriculture) Of food or food products, grown in an environment free from artificial agrichemicals, and possibly certified by a regulatory body.
nonfunctional	Not functional; useless; broken.

💡 Words with a Similar Meaning to "Functional"

Found via reverse dictionary — words that share a conceptual meaning.

Word	Definition
useful	Having a practical or beneficial use.
functioningnoun	functional, working
serviceable	In condition for use.
operative	Functional, in working order.
useable	Alternative spelling of usable. [Capable of being used.]
operable	Able to be operated or used.
utilitarian	Practical and functional, present for use, not just for show.
operational	Functioning and ready for use.
usable	Capable of being used.
workingverb	That is or are functioning.
practical	Relating to, or based on, practice or action rather than theory or hypothesis.
structural	Of, relating to, or having structure.
running	Moving or advancing at a run.
in working order	—
utile	(now rare) Useful.
effective	Having the power to produce a required effect or effects.
workable	Capable of functioning.
capabilitynoun	The power or ability to generate an outcome.
functionnoun	What something does or is used for.
capable	Able and efficient; having the ability needed for a specific task; having the disposition to do something; permitting or being susceptible to something.