operative

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈɒpərətɪv/

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Adjective

Positive operative

Comparative more operative

Superlative most operative

1. If something is operative, it is able to work.
   • Synonym: functional

Noun

Singular operative

Plural operatives

1. (countable) An operative is an employee with some particular function or skill.
2. (countable) An operative is a spy, secret agent, or detective.

Related words

• operate