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operative
adjective
noun
being in force or having or exerting force
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Word Facts
How it sounds
Pronunciation
ˈɒpəɹətɪv
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Meaning
Definitions
adjective
being in force or having or exerting force
“operative regulations”
adjective
(of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing
“in running (or working) order”
adjective
relating to or requiring or amenable to treatment by surgery especially as opposed to medicine
“a surgical appendix”
adjective
effective; producing a desired effect
“the operative word”
noun
someone who can be employed as a detective to collect information and assist in criminal investigations
noun
a person secretly employed in espionage for a government
In context
Example Sentences
operative regulations
the major tendencies operative in the American political system
in running (or working) order
a functional set of brakes
a surgical appendix
a surgical procedure
operative dentistry
the operative word
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Synonyms
Opposite words