Definition of "operative" in 英语

adjective

1. Effectual or important.

   • He's usually in a good mood — the operative word there being "usually". Today was a disaster.

2. Functional, in working order.

3. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects.

   • an operative motive

4. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious.

   • an operative dose, rule, or penalty

5. Based upon, or consisting of, a surgical operation or operations. [from 18th c.]

   • operative surgery

noun

1. An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill.

2. A spy, secret agent, or detective.

3. A participant in an operation.