operators

Noun

operator (countable and uncountable, plural operators)

1. A person or organisation that operates a device, system, service, etc.
   • The drone crashed because of operator error.
2. A telecommunications facilitator whose job is to connect or otherwise assist callers.
   • To get an international line, you used to have to go through the operator.
3. A member of a military special operations unit.
4. A surgeon; one who performs medical operations.
   • Oh, a very well-known man. He has a great reputation as an operator for peritonitis.1923, Ernest Bramah [pseudonym; Ernest Brammah Smith], “(please specify the page)”, in The Eyes of Max Carrados, London: Grant Richards, →OCLC
5. (uncountable) The game of Chinese whispers.
6. (informal) A person who is adept at making deals or getting results, especially one who uses questionable methods.
   • Francis Urquhart: I think Lord Billsborough is starting to lose touch a bit.
     Tim Stamper: Shame. Used to be a hell of an operator in his day.1990, House of Cards, season 1, episode 1

See all 15 meanings of operator