operator Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (mathematics) a symbol or function representing a mathematical operation
  2. noun an agent that operates some apparatus or machine
    manipulator.
    • the operator of the switchboard
  3. noun someone who owns or operates a business
    • who is the operator of this franchise?
  4. noun a shrewd or unscrupulous person who knows how to circumvent difficulties
    wheeler dealer; hustler.
  5. noun a speculator who trades aggressively on stock or commodity markets

WordNet


Op"er*a`tor noun
Etymology
L.
Definitions
  1. One who, or that which, operates or produces an effect.
  2. (Surg.) One who performs some act upon the human body by means of the hand, or with instruments.
  3. A dealer in stocks or any commodity for speculative purposes; a speculator. Brokers' Cant
  4. (Math.) The symbol that expresses the operation to be performed; -- called also facient.

Webster 1913