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Word of the Day Tuesday, June 9, 2026

operationalist

/ˌɒpərˈeɪʃənəlɪst/ noun · British & US
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What does operationalist mean?

noun

A person who believes that the meaning of a word or concept is determined by its practical application or use, rather than by its theoretical or abstract definition. An operationalist is someone who focuses on the actual functioning or operation of something, rather than its theoretical or idealized form.

Example

"The philosopher was an operationalist, arguing that the meaning of 'freedom' should be understood in terms of its practical implications, rather than its abstract definition."

Definition generated by AI and curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Synonyms for operationalist

Antonyms of operationalist

Rhymes with operationalist

Etymologically related