1. functioning; in effect or operation
2. most important or significant

1. a person who works secretly for a government or organization, especially to gather information
2. a skilled worker, especially in manufacturing

Examples

• The security system is now operative after the repairs.
• The operative word in his statement was ‘maybe.’
• A government operative infiltrated the criminal organization.
• The factory hired several new operatives for the assembly line.
• All safety protocols must remain operative during construction.
• The undercover operative gathered crucial intelligence.
• The machine is fully operative and ready for production.