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 : operating3 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