SG Heritage Dictionary

Operative [Adjective] Webster's Dictionary 1828

1. Having the power of acting; exerting force, physical or moral; having or exerting agency; active in the production of effects.

2. In actions of religion we should be zealous, active and operative so far as prudence will permit.

3. It holds in all operative principles, especially in morality.

4. Efficacious; producing the effect.

Operative [Adjective] Webster's Dictionary 1913

1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive.

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

3. Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery.

Operative [Noun] Webster's Dictionary 1913

A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine in a mill or manufactory.

Operatively [Adverb] Webster's Dictionary 1913

In an operative manner.