op·er·a·tive
ˈä-p(ə-)rə-tiv
ˈä-pə-ˌrā-
1
a
: producing an appropriate effect : efficacious
operative techniques
b
: most significant or essential
the operative word in a phrase
the operative facts
2
: exerting force or influence : operating
an operative statute
3
a
: having to do with physical operations (as of machines)
operative skills
b
: working
an operative craftsman
4
: based on or consisting of an operation
operative dentistry
The disease may require operative treatment.
operatively
adverb
operativeness
noun
: operator: such as
b
: a secret agent
d
: a person who works toward achieving the objectives of a larger interest
political operatives
Cite this Entry
“Operative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/operative. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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