Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

operative

[op-er-uh-tiv, op-ruh-tiv, op-uh-rey-tiv] / ˈɒp ər ə tɪv, ˈɒp rə tɪv, ˈɒp əˌreɪ tɪv /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Quinnell’s 1980 novel is now a seven-part thriller starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as a disgraced operative protecting a child amid a criminal conspiracy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

The legal source said his alleged role was to be that of a public relations operative who would use his media links and film content to win public support for the military takeover.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

A U.S. special-forces operative has been charged with using classified information to reap more than $400,000 from bets on the ouster of Venezuela’s president.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

The report said Fluor was negligent in hiring an Afghan who had been a Taliban operative, and it failed to closely supervise him.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

He’s gone from weary businessman to CIA operative.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti




Vocabulary lists containing operative


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "operative" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com