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operative

1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive. It holds in all operative principles. (south)

2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty.

3. (Science: surgery) Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery.

Origin: Cf.L. Operativus, F. Operatif.