Functional
/ˈfʌŋkʃənəl/
Definitions
3 meaningsServing a practical purpose; capable of functioning or operating.
/ˈfʌŋkʃənəl/
Designed to be practical and useful rather than attractive.
The kitchen is designed to be functional, with everything within easy reach.
💡 Simply: If something is functional, it means it's made to work really well and do what it's supposed to do. Like a simple kitchen knife that’s great for cutting, even if it's not fancy.
👶 For kids: Doing what it is supposed to do.
More Examples
The interface of the software is clean and functional, making it easy to use.
How It's Used
"The building's design prioritizes functional space over ornate decoration."
"The new phone case is functional and protects the device well."
Having a specific function or purpose.
/ˈfʌŋkʃənəl/
Relating to or performing a specific function or role.
The functional aspects of the new website include easy navigation and fast loading times.
💡 Simply: Something functional does its specific job or duty. Think of your heart: it's functional because it pumps blood. It has one job, and it does it. A functional part in an engine makes the engine work correctly.
👶 For kids: Having a job to do and doing it.
More Examples
The functional design of the car ensures fuel efficiency.
How It's Used
"The functional role of the enzyme is to catalyze a specific reaction."
"The software provides functional modules for data processing."
Pertaining to a style or design that prioritizes purpose over appearance.
/ˈfʌŋkʃənəl/
Denoting a style of design based on the principle that a building or object should be designed primarily on the basis of its intended function or purpose.
The functional design of the office maximized efficiency and flow.
💡 Simply: Functional design means the object or space is made to be useful and helpful in a particular situation.
👶 For kids: A design that makes the thing work well.
More Examples
The functional design of the website focused on user experience and quick access to information.
How It's Used
"The architect's design was strictly functional, with emphasis on usability."
"The functional design of the chair prioritized comfort and ease of use over aesthetic."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
A neuroimaging technique used to measure brain activity.
"Researchers use fMRI to study the brain's response to different stimuli."
functional programming
A programming paradigm that treats computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions.
"Haskell and Lisp are examples of languages that support functional programming."
From Medieval Latin *functionalis*, from *functio* ('performance, function'). Related to the verb 'function'.
The word gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly in design and architecture, reflecting a movement away from excessive ornamentation.
Memory tip
Think of a tool that's designed to do its job well.
Word Origin
"performance, function"