What is a “functional programming language”?
Opinions differ, even within the functional programming community, on the precise definition of what constitutes a functional programming language. However, here is a definition that, broadly speaking, represents the kind of languages that are discussed in comp.lang.functional: Functional programming is a style of programming that emphasizes the evaluation of expressions, rather than execution of commands. The expressions in these language are formed by using functions to combine basic values. A functional language is a language that supports and encourages programming in a functional style. For example, consider the task of calculating the sum of the integers from 1 to 10.
Words are designed to conjure up ideas and images. So, what does the word functional mean in the context of a programming language. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines functional as: 1 a: of, connected with, or being a function b: affecting physiological or psychological functions but not organic structure
