operative › Synonyms

Synonyms for operative

Grouped by meaning, so you pick the word that fits what you mean. See the full definition of operative.

adjective · relating to or requiring or amenable to treatment by surgery especially as opposed to medicine

“a surgical appendix”

surgical
adjective · (of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing

“in running (or working) order”

runningfunctionalworking
noun · a person secretly employed in espionage for a government
secret agentintelligence officerintelligence agent
noun · someone who can be employed as a detective to collect information and assist in criminal investigations
private detectivePIprivate eyeprivate investigatorshamussherlock

Opposites of operative

inoperative