ENGLISH
REFERENCE

operator

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈɑpɝˌeɪtɝ// UK //ˈɒpəɹˌeɪtɐ// op·er·a·tor Archaic General-service Informal Slang

n. a person who controls a machine or a piece of equipment. It can also mean a company that runs a specific service, like a phone network or a bus line.

n. a person who operates a machine, vehicle, or system; alternatively, a commercial entity that provides a specific service. In informal contexts, it can refer to a person who manipulates situations or people to their own advantage.


SIMPLE

The crane operator moved the heavy steel beams carefully.

CONTEXTUAL

You should contact your network operator if you are having trouble making international calls from your mobile phone.

COMPLEX

Despite the complexity of the new automated system, the lead operator managed to recalibrate the sensors before the production line stalled.

Synonyms
Origin

Borrowed from Latin operātor, from operor (“work, labour”). Equivalent to operate + -or.

Usage

Commonly used in compound nouns such as 'machine operator', 'tour operator', or 'switchboard operator'.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference