Operator
ˈɒpəreɪtər
Definitions
3 meaningsA person who controls and manages a machine, system, or process.
ˈɒpəreɪtər
A person who operates a machine or system.
The crane operator carefully lifted the heavy materials.
💡 Simply: An operator is someone who makes something work, like the person who drives the crane at a construction site. They are in charge of the machine.
👶 For kids: Someone who knows how to use a machine or tool to do a job.
More Examples
The telephone operator handled all incoming calls.
The computer operator made sure the server was running smoothly.
How It's Used
"The radio operator relayed the message."
"A telephone operator connected callers to the correct extensions."
"The surgical operator performed the procedure."
A company or organization that provides a specific service.
ˈɒpəreɪtər
A company that provides a service.
The mobile network operator announced a new roaming service.
💡 Simply: The operator is the company that sells the services like cell phone service or bus tickets.
👶 For kids: A company that runs something like the bus or the phone.
More Examples
The train operator apologized for the delays.
The telecommunications operator experienced a service outage.
How It's Used
"The mobile phone operator offers various data plans."
"The bus operator announced the next stop."
"The telecom operator provides the service."
A symbol or function that represents a mathematical or logical operation.
ˈɒpəreɪtər
A mathematical symbol or function.
The division operator is used to divide numbers.
💡 Simply: In math or computer programming, an operator is a symbol that does something to a number, like adding (+), subtracting (-), or multiplying (x).
👶 For kids: A special math or computer sign that tells you what to do, like adding or taking away.
More Examples
In logic gates, the 'AND' operator requires both inputs to be true.
The differential operator is used to solve certain equations.
How It's Used
"In this equation, the plus sign is an operator."
"The logical AND operator is crucial for programming."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
phone operator
A person who operates a telephone switchboard, connecting callers to the person or department they wish to reach.
"Please hold; I'll connect you to an operator."
From Latin *operari* ('to work') and *operat-* (past participle stem), from *opus* ('work'). The word evolved in English to describe a person who operates or manages something, initially machinery and later other systems or businesses.
Originally used for people who operated machinery, and later expanded to include those managing systems and telecommunications.
Memory tip
Think of a traffic light controller; they are the operator of the light system.
Word Origin
"to work, operate"