Operator: meaning, definitions and examples

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operator

[ ˈɒpəreɪtə ]

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telephone communication

A person who operates a telephone switchboard, especially for a large organization or in a busy office.

Synonyms

switchboard operator, telephonist

Examples of usage

He worked as a switchboard operator at the hotel.
The operator connected the call to the appropriate department.

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mathematics

A symbol or function representing a mathematical operation.

Synonyms

function, symbol

Examples of usage

The plus sign (+) is an operator used for addition.
In this equation, the multiplication operator is denoted by the symbol 'x'.

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computing

A symbol or function representing an operation in computer programming.

Synonyms

function, symbol

Examples of usage

The equal sign (=) is an operator used for assignment in programming.
In Python, the 'and' operator is used to combine conditions.

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transportation

A person who operates a vehicle or machine.

Synonyms

driver, pilot

Examples of usage

The bus operator ensured a smooth ride for the passengers.
The crane operator lifted the heavy load with precision.

Translations

Translations of the word "operator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 operador

🇮🇳 ऑपरेटर

🇩🇪 Operator

Betreiber
Bediener

🇮🇩 operator

pengendali
penyelenggara

🇺🇦 оператор

🇵🇱 operator

operator maszyny
operator systemu

🇯🇵 オペレーター

🇫🇷 opérateur

🇪🇸 operador

🇹🇷 operatör

🇰🇷 운영자

🇸🇦 مشغل

🇨🇿 operátor

🇸🇰 operátor

🇨🇳 操作员

🇸🇮 operater

🇮🇸 rekstraraðili

🇰🇿 оператор

🇬🇪 ოპერატორი

🇦🇿 operator

🇲🇽 operador

Word origin

The word 'operator' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Latin word 'operari' which means 'to work'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings related to individuals performing specific functions or operations. From telephone switchboard operators to mathematical symbols representing operations, 'operator' has become a versatile term used in different fields.