Synonyms

operating

American

[op-uh-rey-ting] / ˈɒp əˌreɪ tɪŋ /

adjective

used or engaged in performing operations.

an operating surgeon.
of, for, or pertaining to operations.

an operating budget.
of or relating to the proper operation of a machine, appliance, etc..

a manual of operating instructions.
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 Word Forms

nonoperating adjective
unoperating adjective

Etymology

Origin of operating

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

British naval ships and soldiers will not be used to block Iranian ports, while UK minesweepers and anti-drone capabilities will continue operating in the region.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Linenberg sees the industry earning $11.5 billion in operating profit this year, down from $20 billion before the war.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

There were 24 operating in 2000, before the U.S. relinquished its lead in aluminum production.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

The closure also affected recreational anglers and those with businesses operating sportfishing charter boats.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Barack had a life in Washington now, operating with some of the gravitas that came with being a senator, but I was still me, living my same normal life.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023