Word
functionality
Phoneticsfunc·tion·al·i·ty, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌfəŋkʃəˈnæɫɪti/
UK/fˌʌŋkʃənˈælɪti/
Definitions
01range of features
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Computing
n. the set of functions or tasks that a computer program or piece of equipment can perform.
n. the range of operations or capabilities provided by a software application or mechanical system.
“The new version of the app has much better functionality than the old one.”
“The developers prioritised core functionality over aesthetic flourishes, ensuring the software remained stable under heavy processing loads.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general capability of a system.
Synonyms
02practicality
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the quality of being useful and serving a clear purpose.
n. the quality of being functional or practical rather than merely decorative.
“When choosing a new car, he cared more about functionality than style.”
“The architect's design was praised for its seamless blend of sleek modern aesthetics and everyday functionality.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
03trademark law
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Law Technical · American English · Formal
n. the rule that you cannot trademark a design if it is necessary for the product to work.
n. the doctrine preventing the trademarking of product features that are essential to the use or purpose of the article.
“The court rejected the trademark because the shape of the bottle was based on functionality.”
“Under the functionality doctrine, the manufacturer could not claim exclusive rights to the hexagonal nut design as it served a purely utilitarian purpose.”
Usage
Primarily used in intellectual property and patent law contexts.
Real-World Examples
“Ray-Ban Meta glasses offer " Be My Eyes " functionality, enabling hands-free calls and live captioning for phone calls.” “Together, these show up as real costs – in dollars, in carbon emissions and in the lives disrupted when a hospital or home loses functionality for months instead of days.” Etymology
From functional + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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