OPERATIONAL Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

operational

adjective

ˌä-pə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl

Definition of operational

as in operating

being in effective operation a fully operational oil refinery

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of operational Falcon Heavy is an operational vehicle, but the fully reusable Starship remains in the test-flight phase. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 15 Oct. 2026 The letter also made clear that any operational issues involving them should be directed to the relevant police authorities. — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026 Before making changes, businesses should compare scenarios using the full range of relevant costs and operational considerations. — Shannon Hynds, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026 Passaggio is far from alone, as other California wineries have announced closures and operational changes recently. — Ella Chakarian, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for operational

Recent Examples of Synonyms for operational

Adjective

That sits on the books of the league’s 32 Equity investment arm, and 1/32 of any gains or losses in the entity flow through the Packers’ non-operating income.

— Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 24 July 2026
True, some if the upside surprise has come from non-operating gains on holdings in huge, private AI pioneers, but not all of it.

— Michael Santoli, CNBC, 2 June 2026

Definition of operating

Adjective

Post-operative test results to confirm whether the pope is completely cancer-free and what, if any, treatment is needed have not been released yet.

— Barbie Latza Nadeau, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026
The Vatican says post-operative blood tests and a chest X-ray show no immediate complications.

— Stephanie Stahl, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of operative

Adjective

Parenting a child comes with unique stressors, from small daily hassles like getting kids out the door on time for school to the bigger assignment of raising a functioning, happy and healthy human.

— Daniel M. Bagner, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026
Two years later, that land was a functioning commercial development with healthcare services, co-working space, community banking and retail tenants serving a neighborhood that had none of those things before.

— Srinivasulu Mupparaju, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Definition of functioning

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operation

operational

operations

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“Operational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operational. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of operational

adjective

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