6. (Surg.)
Defn: Any methodical action of the hand, or of the hand with instruments, on the human body, to produce a curative or remedial effect, as in amputation, etc. Calculus of operations. See under Calculus.
OPERATIVE
Op"er*a*tive, a. Etym: [Cf.L. operativus, F. opératif.]
1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive. It holds in all operative principles. South.
2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty.
3. (Surg.)
Defn: Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery.
OPERATIVE
Op"er*a*tive, n.
Defn: A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine in a mill or manufactory.
OPERATIVELY
Op"er*a*tive*ly, adv.