Category:Operative

Op"er*a*tive, a. Etym: [cf.L. operativus, f. opératif.]

1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or Moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive. It holds in all operative principles. South.

2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; as, an Operative dose, rule, or penalty.

3. (surg.)

Defn: based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, Operative surgery.

Operative Op"er*a*tive, n.

Defn: a skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine In a mill or manufactory.