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  1. OPERATIVE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

    The meaning of OPERATIVE is producing an appropriate effect : efficacious. How to use operative in a sentence.

  2. OPERATIVE | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary

    OPERATIVE meaning: 1. a worker, especially one who is skilled in working with their hands: 2. a person who works…. Learn more.

  3. OPERATIVE definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary

    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 …

  4. operative noun - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage …

    Definition of operative noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

  5. Operatives - definition of operatives by The Free Dictionary

    Define operatives. operatives synonyms, operatives pronunciation, operatives translation, English dictionary definition of operatives. adj. 1. Being in effect; having force; operating: "Two major …

  6. operative - WordReference.com Dictionary of English

    Medicine, Surgery concerned with, involving, or pertaining to surgical operations. op′er•a•tive•ness, op•er•a•tiv•i•ty (op′ər ə tiv′ i tē), n. 1. workman, factory hand. 2. investigator, …

  7. operative - Wiktionary, the free dictionary

    Nov 14, 2025 · operative (plural operatives) An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill. quotations

  8. operative - Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English Online

    • Covered by the confusion and noise of maneuvers, CIA operatives would stash weapons and equipment. • He joined Rakovsky's select team of young Intelligence operatives.

  9. OPERATIVE Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com

    OPERATIVE definition: a person engaged, employed, or skilled in some branch of work, especially productive or industrial work; worker. See examples of operative used in a sentence.

  10. Operative Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary

    The factory must pass inspection before it becomes operative. The telephone system is now fully operative. If I go, I will bring a salad. “If,” however, is the operative word, since I am not sure …