operatives

7 definitions • 9 examples

a worker, especially one who is skilled in working with their hands:

a factory operative

a person who works secretly for an organization:

a CIA operative

working or being used:

The agreement will not become operative until all members have signed.

relating to a medical operation:

an operative technique

working, or in existence:

Our computerized stock-control system is now operative.

I’m looking for a large, affordable apartment – and "affordable" is the operative word (= it has special importance).

a worker:

a database/call-centre/factory operative

working or being used:

The agreement will not become operative until all members have signed.

The green light comes on when the machine is operative.