Meaning of operative
Definition of operative
(adj)
being in force or having or exerting force; "operative regulations"; "the major tendencies operative in the American political system"
relating to or requiring or amenable to treatment by surgery especially as opposed to medicine; "a surgical appendix"; "a surgical procedure"; "operative dentistry"
(of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing; "in running (or working) order"; "a functional set of brakes"