operational

[op-uh-rey-shuh-nl]

adjective

1. able to function or be used; functional.

   How soon will the new factory be operational?

2. Military.

   1. of, relating to, or involved in military operations.

   2. on active service or combat duty.

      All units of the command are operational.

3. of or relating to operations or an operation.

operational

/ ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to an operation or operations

2. in working order and ready for use

3. military capable of, needed in, or actually involved in operations

Other Word Forms

• operationally adverb
• nonoperational adjective
• preoperational adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of operational¹

First recorded in 1920–25; operation + -al ¹

Example Sentences

"I can clearly say there are no plans for the involvement of Christian in an operational or investment role in the future."

From BBC

"We do not comment on operational matters, including for example confirming or denying the existence of any such notices," a Home Office spokesperson said.

From BBC

Speaking to Radio 5 Live at Labour conference, Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden dismissed the idea that security decisions were political, adding it was an operational matter "for the police and the security authorities".

From BBC

Regional directors have cumulatively closed a similar number of cases in 2025 compared to recent years when both the Board and regional directors were fully operational.

From Los Angeles Times

"The nature of hybrid war is that it's intended to take us by surprise. So we're not done with operational shocks like this one."

From BBC

Related Words

• practical 
• ready 
• useful 
• viable 
• working