Main Entry: ¹op·er·a·tive

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

Function: adjective

Date: 15th century

1 a : producing an appropriate effect : efficacious b : most significant or essential <the operative word in a phrase>
2 : exerting force or influence : operating
3 a : having to do with physical operations (as of machines) b : working <an operative craftsman>
4 : based on or consisting of an operation <operative dentistry>

— op·er·a·tive·ly adverb

— op·er·a·tive·ness noun