functional
adjective
1. useful; serving a purpose, fulfilling a function.
- a style of writing in which every word is functional
- functional architecture
Similar word(s): structural, useful, utilitarian, serviceable
2. relating to or based on function especially as opposed to structure
- the problem now is not a constitutional one; it is a functional one
- delegates elected on a functional rather than a geographical basis
3. fit or ready for use or service
- the toaster was still functional even after being dropped
Similar word(s): serviceable, operable, operational, usable, useable
4. designed for or adapted to a function or use
- functional education selects knowledge that is usable in the real world
Similar word(s): practical
5. (of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing
- a functional set of brakes
Similar word(s): functioning, operative, running, working
Sentences with functional as an adjective:
- That sculpture is not merely artistic, but also functional: it can be used as a hatrack.
- A functional construction element generally must meet higher technical but lower aesthetical requirements
noun
1. (mathematics) 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. (mathematics, functional analysis) A scalar-valued linear function on a vector space
3. (computing) An object encapsulating a function pointer (or equivalent).