Definition of operative

• a. - Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive.
• a. - Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty.
• a. - Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery.
• n. - A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine in a mill or manufactory.