operable

[ op-er-uh-buhl, op-ruh- ]

adjective

1. that can be treated by a surgical operation. Compare inoperable ( def 2 ).
2. capable of being put into use, operation, or practice.

operable

/ ˈɒprə-; ˈɒpərəbəl /

adjective

1. capable of being treated by a surgical operation
2. capable of being operated
3. capable of being put into practice

Derived Forms

• ˈoperably, adverb
• ˌoperaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• oper·a·bili·ty noun
• oper·a·bly adverb
• non·oper·a·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of operable¹

1640–50; < Late Latin operābilis, equivalent to operā ( rī ) to work + -bilis -ble

Example Sentences

Many mechanically ventilated commercial buildings don’t have operable windows, and deep interior spaces often make natural ventilation ineffective.

From Time

Tools are one-hand operable and lock into place, and the Signal comes in seven different colors.

From Outside Online

The smooth two-way right-side zipper is operable ­with one hand for slick temperature regulation, and the stretchy hard-shell material is lightweight with seamless cuff reinforcements.

From Outside Online

The Science Museum did have constructed from its own drawings a very fine replica which is completely operable at this time.

From Project Gutenberg

The Wrights' goal was an operable and reasonably lightweight unit to be obtained quickly and cheaply.

From Project Gutenberg

The case is not like that of the woman who has an operable cervical cancer while she is bearing an inviable fetus.

From Project Gutenberg

In the second case the cancer is operable and the child is viable.

From Project Gutenberg

I've got all steering stations manned, but only thirty percent of them are still operable.

From Project Gutenberg