Operational Definition & Meaning

operational
adjective
  1. pertaining to a process or series of actions for achieving a result; "operational difficulties"; "they assumed their operational positions"
  2. fit or ready for use or service; "the toaster was still functional even after being dropped"; "the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable"; "an operational aircraft"; "the dishwasher is now in working order"
  3. (military) of or intended for or involved in military operations
  4. being in effect or operation; "de facto apartheid is still operational even in the `new' African nations"- Leslie Marmon Silko; "bus service is in operation during the emergency"; "the company had several operating divisions"

Synonyms for operational

active adj

tending to become more severe or wider in scope

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms
effective adj

producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect

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functional adj

designed for or capable of a particular function or use; "a style of writing in which every word is functional

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operable adj

capable of being treated by surgical operation; "an operable cancer" fit or ready for use or service

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operating adj

involved in a kind of operation; "the operating conditions of the oxidation pond" being in effect or operation

♫ Rhymes
operative adj

being in force or having or exerting force; "operative regulations

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serviceable adj

ready for service or able to give long service; "serviceable equipment

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usable adj

capable of being put to use; "usable byproducts" fit or ready for use or service

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useable adj

fit or ready for use or service; "the toaster was still functional even after being dropped

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms

"Operational" in song lyrics

See how operational is used in real songs:

  • "ag engineering and operational"
    AOL — AOL
  • "mistakes concrete operational"
    AOL — AOL
  • "concrete operational"
    AOL — AOL

Words that rhyme with operational

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Usage tips for "operational"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "operational" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for operational to find words that pair well.

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♫ Rhymes with operational ↔ Synonyms for operational 🔬 Words containing operational

Frequently asked questions

What does operational mean?
pertaining to a process or series of actions for achieving a result; "operational difficulties"; "they assumed their operational positions" fit or ready for use or service; "the toaster was still functional even after being dropped"; "the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable"; "an operational aircraft"; "the dishwasher is now in working order" (military) of or intended for or involved in military operations being in effect or operation
What part of speech is operational?
Operational is an adjective.
How many definitions does operational have?
Operational has 4 definitions across 1 part of speech (adjective).

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