Dictionary definitions
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operative
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Operative \Op"er*a*tive\, a. [Cf.L. operativus, F. op['e]ratif.]
1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force,
physical or moral; active in the production of effects;
as, an operative motive; operative laws.
[1913 Webster]
It holds in all operative principles. --South.
[1913 Webster]
2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious;
effective; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Surg.) Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or
operations; as, operative surgery.
[1913 Webster]
.
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Operative \Op"er*a*tive\, n.
1. A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a
machine in a mill or manufactory.
[1913 Webster]
2. One who acts as an agent of another, especially a
detective or spy.
[PJC]
