'Functional' definitions:

Definition of 'functional'

From: WordNet
adjective
Designed for or capable of a particular function or use; "a style of writing in which every word is functional"; "functional architecture" [ant: nonfunctional]
adjective
Involving or affecting function rather than physiology; "functional deafness" [ant: organic]
adjective
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"
adjective
Fit or ready for use or service; "the toaster was still functional even after being dropped"; "the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable"; "an operational aircraft"; "the dishwasher is now in working order" [syn: functional, usable, useable, operable, operational]
adjective
Designed for or adapted to a function or use; "functional education selects knowledge that is concrete and usable rather than abstract and theoretical"; "functional architecture"
adjective
(of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing; "in running (or working) order"; "a functional set of brakes" [syn: running(a), operative, functional, working(a)]

Definition of 'Functional'

From: GCIDE
  • Functional \Func"tion*al\ (f[u^][ng]k"sh[u^]n*al), a.
  • 1. Pertaining to, or connected with, a function or duty; official. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Pathology, Physiol.) Pertaining to the function of an organ or part, or to the functions in general; involving or affecting function rather than physiology; as, functional deafness; a functional disease. See {functional disease}, below. [WordNet sense 2] [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Designed for or capable of a particular function or use; as, a style of writing in which every word is functional; functional architecture. [WordNet sense 1] [WordNet 1.6]
  • 4. Fit or ready for use or service; useable; in working order; as, the toaster was still functional even after being dropped; the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still functional. Antonym of out of order and nonfunctional. [WordNet sense 4 & 6]
  • Syn: usable, useable, in working order(predicate), operable, operational, running(prenominal), operative. [WordNet 1.6]
  • 5. Designed to emphasize practical utility rather than artistic or aesthetic purposes; as, functional education selects knowledge that is concrete and usable rather than abstract and theoretical; functional architecture; an amateurish device, crude but functional. [WordNet 1.6]
  • Functional disease (Med.), a disease of which the symptoms cannot be referred to any appreciable lesion or change of structure; the derangement of an organ arising from a cause, often unknown, external to itself opposed to organic disease, in which the organ itself is affected. [1913 Webster]