operable

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

adjective

1. that can be treated by a surgical operation.

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

Other Word Forms

• operably adverb
• operability noun
• nonoperable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of operable¹

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