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- Dictionaryoperative/ˈɒp(ə)rətɪv/
adjective
- 1. functioning or having effect: "the transmitter is operative" Similar Opposite
- 2. relating to surgery: "wounds needing operative treatment"
noun
- 1. a worker, especially one in a manufacturing industry: "the operatives clean the machines at the end of every shift" Similar
- 2. a secret agent or private detective: North American "a CIA operative" Similar
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OPERATIVE definition: 1. a worker, especially one who is skilled in working with their hands: 2. a person who works…. Learn more.
The meaning of OPERATIVE is producing an appropriate effect : efficacious. How to use operative in a sentence.
As a noun, operative is often used as a synonym for spy. It can also, less covertly, be used to name a skilled worker, as in "No one aligns gears better than Joe, an operative at the car factory." As an adjective, operative can mean that something is working, as in "an operative car alarm."
What does the word operative mean? There are 12 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word operative, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. How common is the word operative? How is the word operative pronounced? Where does the word operative come from?
1. a person engaged or skilled in some branch of work, esp. productive or industrial work; worker. 2. detective. 3. a secret agent; spy. 4. a clever manipulator; operator. 5. operating, or exerting force or influence. 6. being in effect or operation. 7. effective or efficacious. 8. significant; key.
Definition of operative adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
A system or service that is operative is working or having an effect. The commercial telephone service was no longer operative. An operative is a worker, especially one who does work with their hands. In an automated car plant there is not a human operative to be seen.
OPERATIVE meaning: 1. working or being used: 2. someone who does secret work for a government or other organization: . Learn more.
A complete guide to the word "OPERATIVE": definitions, pronunciations, synonyms, grammar insights, collocations, examples, and translations.
OPERATIVE meaning: 1. a worker, especially one who is skilled in working with their hands: 2. a person who works…. Learn more.
