OPERATIVE definition: a person engaged, employed, or skilled in some branch of work, especially productive or industrial work; worker. See examples of operative used in a sentence.

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 …

OPERATIVE definition: 1. a worker, especially one who is skilled in working with their hands: 2. a person who works…. Learn more.

operating, or exerting force, power, or influence. being in effect or operation: laws operative in this city. effective or efficacious. engaged in, concerned with, or pertaining to work or productive activity. key: …

There are 12 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word operative, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

The meaning of OPERATIVE is producing an appropriate effect : efficacious. How to use operative in a sentence.

Jan 20, 2026 · Noun operative (plural operatives) An employee or other worker with some particular function or skill.