This is the 18065th most frequent Russian word.
функционировать
To operate or function.
Here the verb 'функционировать' is used to describe the action of properly working or operating in reference to a device or mechanism.
Этот аппарат функционирует без сбоев уже много лет.
This machine has been functioning without interruptions for many years.
In this sentence, 'функционировать' refers to the start of operation or implementation of a system.
Новая система управления начала функционировать с первого января.
The new management system started functioning from the first of January.
Here, 'функционировать' is used to describe the continued operation or existence of an organization or entity under challenging circumstances.