(adj) being in force or having or exerting force, Ant. inoperative, Example:operative regulations; the major tendencies operative in the American political system
a. [ Cf.L. operativus, F. opératif. ] 1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive; operative laws. [ 1913 Webster ]
It holds in all operative principles. South. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; effective; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. (Surg.) Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery. [ 1913 Webster ]