OPERANT Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

operant

adjective

Definition of operant

as in efficient

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Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of operant Bradfield probably could have parlayed that success into some sort of cushy position with Burnett, but his operant mode was reinvention. — Susan Orlean, The New Yorker, 18 Feb. 2022 As such, mobile games have developed into monsters psychologically tuned to rip thousands out of players vulnerable enough to be operant conditioned into a game addiction. — Clem Chambers, Forbes, 8 Nov. 2021 The current study investigated domestic cat preferences at the individual and population level using a free operant preference assessment. — Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2017

Recent Examples of Synonyms for operant

Adjective

Personalize your warm-up to be efficient and effective Not every warm-up needs equal time in every phase.

— Dana Santas, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2026
At the site, the team is developing more efficient ways to recover scarce radioisotopes that would otherwise be discarded as waste.

— Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of efficient

Adjective

Others argue even if wilderness therapy is effectual for some, its premise is flawed.

— Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024
Will prospective politicos and those holding positions of power prompt effectual projects to maintain upkeep and ensure each and every citizen is safe rather than pushing self-serving, divisive social agendas?

— Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 16 Jan. 2024

Definition of effectual

Adjective

Making everyone a potential spy or assassin was only an expedient way to destroy institutions internally and externally through financial incentives.

— Finn Brunton, Harpers Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026
While his expedient return to action after those injuries was commendable, the Mets are wondering if a lack of rehab took its toll.

— Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 19 July 2026

Definition of expedient

Adjective

All three have the advantage of leveraging their strong ties with both Iran and the US to serve as more effective mediators.

— Lauren Morganbesser, semafor.com, 22 Sep. 2026
Even the World Organization for Animal Health, whose guidelines the CFIA follows, is reconsidering how effective culls are in halting bird-flu outbreaks in a world where the next wild duck to land at a farm could trigger another one.

— J. B. MacKinnon, Harpers Magazine, 22 Sep. 2026

Definition of effective

Browse Nearby Words

opera hats

operant

operate

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“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 25 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of operant

adjective

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