operant

adjective

Definition of operantnext
as in efficient

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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
  1. efficient
  2. efficacious
  3. effectual
  4. expedient
  5. effective
Adjective
  • Even before gaining overnight climate control, the 242-hp California eHybrid 4Motion was an easy favorite among all California powertrain options because of that efficient, range anxiety-defeating gas-electric capability.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Instead of sending raw sensor data to remote servers, an AI model running on an energy-efficient microcontroller processes the information directly at the measurement site.
    — Muskan Bhatia, Interesting Engineering, 5 Nov. 2026
Definition of efficient
Adjective
  • The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Affordable and efficacious, this serum played a key role in fueling The Ordinary’s meteoric rise through the ranks of skin care.
    — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Despite their reputation as one of the most efficacious skin-care ingredients on the market, retinoids are not without caveats.
    — Rio Viera-Newton, Vogue, 23 July 2026
Definition of efficacious
Adjective
  • If we were left solely to the wordy wit of legislators in Congress for our guidance, uncorrected by the seasonable experience and the effectual complaints of the people, America would not long retain her rank among the nations.
    — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Others argue even if wilderness therapy is effectual for some, its premise is flawed.
    — Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024
Definition of effectual
Adjective
  • Well before their endeavours in the shadow of a crumbling Motor City became intellectual fodder, first wave producers did play the commercial game when expedient.
    — Gabriel Szatan, Pitchfork, 2 Nov. 2026
  • As much as the Brewers now seem like a cinch to win their first title in the most expedient fashion available to them (Milwaukee enters Game 4 as -125 favorites), there’s always a chance the 2026 Rays may live to see another day.
    — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of expedient
Adjective
  • Fraga added that her administration remains focused on fiscal responsibility, public safety, economic development and delivering effective, accountable government.
    — Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Luna pitched himself to county voters as a calmly effective operator who has brought down crime while building relationships with local, state and federal leaders that suffered under his predecessor’s tenure.
    — Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2026
Definition of effective

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operant
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Cite this Entry

“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

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