operating

[ op-uh-rey-ting ]

adjective

1. used or engaged in performing operations:

   an operating surgeon.

2. of, for, or pertaining to operations:

   an operating budget.

3. of or relating to the proper operation of a machine, appliance, etc.:

   a manual of operating instructions.

4. Railroads. of, pertaining, or belonging to railroad workers, as engineers or firemen, who are directly engaged in the mechanical operation of trains:

   an operating union.

Other Words From

• non·oper·ating adjective
• un·oper·ating adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of operating¹

First recorded in 1800–10; operat(e) + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

It's not clear whether the bonus has in fact been paid out, but the regulator will insist that it is not paid by the operating company, and must be borne by the company owners.

From BBC

She said she was still operating it and "delivering local sessions".

From BBC

Collectively, this should lower the operating costs of the fusion system.

From Science Daily

Cedars-Sinai medical staff had failed to follow up on imaging and lab orders and delayed taking Johnson back to the operating room until nearly 10 hours had passed since her C-section, the letter said.

From Los Angeles Times

Matt Rice, Northern’s chief operating officer, said the firm was "sorry for our recent performance, accept it has not been good enough and understand the impact this has on our customers".

From BBC

Related Words

• operational
• running
• working