Operator

Definition

An operator is a person or thing that operates, manages, or controls. In mathematics and computing, it refers to a symbol or function representing a mathematical operation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɑpəˌreɪtər/
• Respelling: OP-uh-ray-tur (with "OP" as in "opt," "uh" as in "sofa," "ray" as in "ray," and "tur" as in "turner")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɒpəˌreɪtə(r)/
• Respelling: OP-uh-ray-tuh (similar to American English, with "OP" as in "opt," "uh" as in "sofa," "ray" as in "ray," and "tuh" as in "butter")

In both dialects, "operator" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "OP." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "OP-uh-ray-tur" and "OP-uh-ray-tuh."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "operari" meaning "to work" with the suffix "-tor" which denotes a person who performs a specified action. The term "operator" implies someone or something that performs operations or works.

Derivatives

• Operate (verb form)
• Operational (adjective form relating to the act of operating)
• Operation (a process or an act of operating)
• Operatorship (the position or function of an operator)
• Operatory (a room or place for surgical operations)

Synonyms

• Handler
• Controller
• Manager

Antonyms

• None (specific antonyms for "operator" are context-dependent and may not exist universally)

Usage

"Operator" can denote individuals in charge of machinery, telecommunications systems, or other specialized equipment. In the context of mathematics or programming, it refers to symbols or functions signifying operations.

• The operator at the call center connected my call to the manager.
• The addition operator in mathematics is represented by the '+' symbol.
• The machine operator ensured the device was running smoothly.

Related Terms

• Operation
• Operate
• Function
• Mechanism
• Controller

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Person in Control: An individual who operates a machine, device, or system.‍
• Example: The crane operator has to be extremely cautious when lifting heavy loads.

• Telecommunications: A person who facilitates or manages communication, especially in telephony.‍
• Example: I spoke to the operator to help me connect to the overseas department.

• Mathematics/Computing: A symbol or function that denotes a specific mathematical or logical operation.‍
• Example: In the equation 2 + 3 = 5, the '+' is the operator.

• Business Manager/Owner: An individual who manages or runs a business venture, especially with initiative and risk.‍
• Example: He's not just an investor but an active operator in the tech startup scene.