functioning

func·tion  (fngkshn)

n.

1. The action for which a person or thing is particularly fitted or employed.

2.

a. Assigned duty or activity.

b. A specific occupation or role: in my function as chief editor.

3. An official ceremony or a formal social occasion.

4. Something closely related to another thing and dependent on it for its existence, value, or significance: Growth is a function of nutrition.

5. Abbr. f Mathematics

a. A variable so related to another that for each value assumed by one there is a value determined for the other.

b. A rule of correspondence between two sets such that there is a unique element in the second set assigned to each element in the first set.

6. Biology The physiological activity of an organ or body part.

7. Chemistry The characteristic behavior of a chemical compound, resulting from the presence of a specific functional group.

8. Computer Science A procedure within an application.

intr.v. func·tioned, func·tion·ing, func·tions

To have or perform a function; serve: functioned as ambassador.

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[Latin fncti, fnctin-, performance, execution, from fnctus, past participle of fung, to perform, execute.]

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function·less adj.

Synonyms: function, duty, office, role
These nouns denote the actions and activities assigned to, required of, or expected of a person: the function of a teacher; a bank clerk's duty; assumed the office of financial adviser; the role of a parent.

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	functioning - process or manner of functioning or operating; "the power of its engine determines its operation"; "the plane's operation in high winds"; "they compared the cooking performance of each oven"; "the jet's performance conformed to high standards" performance, operation physical process, process - a sustained phenomenon or one marked by gradual changes through a series of states; "events now in process"; "the process of calcification begins later for boys than for girls"
Adj.	1.	functioning - performing or able to perform its regular function; "a functioning flashlight" malfunctioning, nonfunctional - not performing or able to perform its regular function; "a malfunctioning valve"