operative
//ˈɒp.ər.ə.tɪv//
Adjective
operativeCanonical form
1
Functioning or having effect; in force or operation.
The new regulations will become operative next month.
2
Most significant or essential; key.
The operative word in this contract is 'optional'.
3
Relating to or involving a surgical operation.
The patient experienced some operative complications after the surgery.
Synonym
Antonym
Noun
operativeSingular
operativesPlural
1
A worker, especially a skilled one in a manufacturing industry.
The factory employs over 500 skilled operatives.
2
A secret agent or spy.
The operative was sent to gather intelligence in the foreign country.