FUNCTIONAL Synonyms: 118 Similar and Opposite Words

functional

adjective

ˈfəŋ(k)-shnəl

Definition of functional

as in operational

being in effective operation I don't think that vending machine is functional, so don't put money into it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in useful

capable of being put to use or account a functional knowledge of auto mechanics

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in available

capable of or suitable for being used for a particular purpose a very functional kitchen utensil for peeling potatoes

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of functional While there have been many renditions of the Chelsea boot, from hot new prints to chunky platform versions, its functional features and signature silhouette has remained. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026 For example, selecting a chair that encourages an upright posture can reduce pain and injury risk, especially when gamers couple ergonomics with an exercise program that centers on functional strength, mobility and stretching of the upper limbs. — Erica D. Henn, The Conversation, 28 Aug. 2026 Evaluating vendors across these functional boundaries makes sure that brands, manufacturers and IT teams can adopt AI without exposing any proprietary assets or impacting production workflows. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 28 Aug. 2026 The entitlement can also be used to access the game on devices that support Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming, while the physical disc remains functional. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for functional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for functional

Adjective

Researchers point out that this ability could make maritime simulations more realistic while helping identify weaknesses in operational plans.

— Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026
Some industry experts have warned that the SPR will soon reach operational minimums soon, wiping out any further cushion to offset the oil deficit from the Middle East.

— Jason Ma, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of operational

Adjective

Perfumer Jérôme Epinette added two more scents — Embrace, and D’lish — to join the already available Thrill, Splash, Crush, Sweet, and Vibe.

— Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 26 Aug. 2026
More than 200 titles will launch with Indonesian dubbing, with a wider slate available in Indonesian subtitles.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of available

Adjective

That sits on the books of the league’s 32 Equity investment arm, and 1/32 of any gains or losses in the entity flow through the Packers’ non-operating income.

— Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 24 July 2026
True, some if the upside surprise has come from non-operating gains on holdings in huge, private AI pioneers, but not all of it.

— Michael Santoli, CNBC, 2 June 2026

Definition of operating

Adjective

The approach can be especially applicable when several providers in one area use similar equipment.

— Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
In court Friday, Rothblatt said prosecutors determined Company A had paid all applicable income taxes to the IRS on time, and that any personal income taxes that had been owed by Individual B were paid up in following years.

— Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of applicable

Adjective

Also, at least one Dolls doctor, the administrative complaint said, skipped steps in pre-operative risk evaluation of anesthesia and the surgery to be performed or at least failed to document taking each of those steps.

— David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 24 Aug. 2026
Kiara suddenly has the ability to jump out of cable cars and scale buildings with a CIA-operative level of precision.

— CT Jones, Rolling Stone, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of operative

Adjective

Turning the measured effect into a practical quantum-control tool will require researchers to understand and manage the remaining optical imperfections.

— Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026
The upcoming holidays will test AI's practical advantage in navigating uncertainty and building resilient retail businesses.

— Jill Standish, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

Definition of practical

Adjective

Parenting a child comes with unique stressors, from small daily hassles like getting kids out the door on time for school to the bigger assignment of raising a functioning, happy and healthy human.

— Daniel M. Bagner, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026
Two years later, that land was a functioning commercial development with healthcare services, co-working space, community banking and retail tenants serving a neighborhood that had none of those things before.

— Srinivasulu Mupparaju, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026