Synonyms of operationalnext
1
: of or relating to operation or to an operation
the operational gap between planning and production
2
: of, relating to, or based on operations
3
a
: of, engaged in, or connected with execution of military or naval operations in campaign or battle
b
: ready for or in condition to undertake a destined function
operationally adverb

Examples of operational in a Sentence

The new airport should be fully operational by next year. The computer network is now operational.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Detecting a fault before launch could prevent equipment damage, reduce operational interruptions, and help protect people and property on the ground. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2026 When Uthmeier unveiled the state’s plans in June of 2025 to transform a remote airfield into a fully operational detention facility in a matter of days, the couple’s companies were go-to contractors to make that vision a reality. — Kate Payne, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026 Compensation is often viewed primarily as an operational expense. — Anthony Mastro, Forbes.com, 26 Oct. 2026 Malani said some startups were rushing toward initial public offerings before developing the operational maturity needed to become sustainable public companies. — Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for operational

Word History

Etymology

operation + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of operational was in 1885

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Operational.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/operational. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

operational

adjective
op·​er·​a·​tion·​al ˌäp-ə-ˈrā-shnəl How to pronounce operational (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
1
: of or relating to operation or an operation
2
: ready for operation

Legal Definition

operational

adjective
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