English dictionary

operative

/'/A/p/@/,r/eI/t/I/v/

Definitions, examples, synonyms and antonyms from WordNet 3.0.

adjective

being in force or having or exerting force

adj.all

Examples
Operative regulations.

The major tendencies operative in the American political system.

Antonyms inoperative

Source: WordNet 3.0
relating to or requiring or amenable to treatment by surgery especially as opposed to medicine

adj.all

Examples
Operative dentistry.

Synonyms surgical

Antonyms medical

Source: WordNet 3.0
Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an <i>operative</i> motive.

adjective

Source: webster1913

a person secretly employed in espionage for a government

noun.person

Synonyms intelligence agent intelligence officer secret agent

Source: WordNet 3.0
someone who can be employed as a detective to collect information

noun.person

Synonyms pi private detective private eye private investigator shamus sherlock

Source: WordNet 3.0
A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine in a mill or manufactory.

noun

Source: webster1913