I. ˈfəŋ(k)shəˌnerē, -ri noun
also func·tion·aire or func·tion·naire | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷|na(a)](ə)r, -|ne], ]ə\
( plural functionaries also functionaires or functionnaires )
Etymology: functionary (translation of French fonctionnaire ) from function (I) + -ary (n. suffix); functionaire, functionnaire modification (influenced by English function ) (I) of French fonctionnaire, from fonction function (from Latin function-, functio performance) + -aire -ary — more at function
: one who serves in a certain function
characters in melodrama … are rather functionaries in a preconceived plot — Roger Manvell
the functionaries who summon motorcars for the clubhouse patrons — Frank Sullivan
especially : one holding a paid position or office in a government or party : civil servant
the bureaucracy … includes a number of functionaries … 1 court clerk … 1 forest guard … 1 market sweeper — Mary Tew
: official
the distinction between members of the Communist party and functionaries — Sidney Hook
II. adjective
Etymology: function (I) + -ary (adjective suffix)
: functional 1b