functioning

[ fuhngk-shuh-ning ]

adjective

1. performing a specified action or activity; working; operating:

   My son has only one functioning kidney.

2. (of a person with addiction or other illness or disability) able to cope with everyday life, as at home or at work: functioning diabetics. high-functioning.

   a functioning alcoholic with a successful career;

   functioning diabetics.

Word History and Origins

Origin of functioning¹

First recorded in 1835–40; in 1970–75 functioning fordef 2; function ( def ) (in the sense “to perform an action”) + -ing ²( def )

Example Sentences

"Long-term action is necessary to deliver a sustained reduction to the prison population and support the effective functioning of prisons," she said.

From BBC

In the end, Trump may destroy America as a functioning democracy.

From Salon

While that may not quite be “the dream,” a functioning stable society shadow-designed by women to sensibly govern the future sounds grand.

From Salon

Current data do not support a strong causal link between involuntary treatment and treatment adherence, relapse prevention or social functioning.

From Salon

And 40% of the responses identified emotions as functioning to motivate behaviors.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• functional
• working