operative - Dictionary definition and pronunciation - Yahoo! Education

Definition of operative

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op·er·a·tive  audio  (pr--tv, --rtv, pr-) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:
  1. Being in effect; having force; operating: "Two major tendencies are operative in the American political system" (Heinz Eulau).
  2. Functioning effectively; efficient.
  3. Engaged in or concerned with physical or mechanical activity.
  4. Of, relating to, or resulting from a surgical operation.
  5. Significant; most important; key: The operative word is "low-fat."
NOUN:
  1. A skilled worker, especially in industry.
    1. A secret agent; a spy.
    2. A private investigator.


OTHER FORMS:
oper·a·tive·ly(Adverb)


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