Operator - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An operator is a person who controls or manages machinery, equipment, or systems. In mathematics, it is a symbol (like + or -) that represents a specific action or function.
Definition:
A person who controls equipment or a machine, or an organization providing a service.
Synonyms:
technician, handler, controller, agent
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
bystander, observer
Common Collocations:
telephone operator, machine operator, tour operator, system operator
Derivatives:
operate, operation, operative
Usage Tips:
Use "operator" for someone managing machinery or services; avoid for casual users of devices.
Common Phrases:
smooth operator, tour operator, phone operator
Etymology:
From Latin "operari" (to work), via French "opérateur," meaning a worker or performer of tasks.
Examples:
- 1. The elevator operator greeted everyone with a smile.
- 2. She works as a telephone operator at the call center.
- 3. The factory hired a new machine operator last week.
- 4. He’s known as a smooth operator in business deals.