Functionals

/ˈfʌŋkʃənəlz/ noun

Definition

Plural of functional; in mathematics and physics, these are mathematical objects that map functions to numbers, used to solve complex problems.

Etymology

From functional, which derives from Latin functio (performance). The plural -s ending marks multiple instances of these mathematical entities.

Kelly Says

Functionals are like the superheroes of calculus of variations—instead of measuring single points, they measure entire functions, letting physicists describe everything from light paths to the shape of soap bubbles.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.