Main Entry: in·op·er·a·tive

Pronunciation: \-ˈä-p(ə-)rə-tiv, -ˈä-pə-ˌrā-\

Function: adjective

Date: circa 1631

: not operative: as a : not functioning <an inoperative clock> b : having no effect or force <an inoperative law>

— in·op·er·a·tive·ness noun