operator

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A person who controls a machine or piece of equipment.

   The crane operator lowered the load slowly.

2. 2
   noun

   A person whose job is to connect telephone calls or help callers.

   To get an international line, you used to go through the operator.

3. 3
   noun

   A person or company that runs a business or service.

   The tour operator arranged all our flights and hotels.

4. 4
   noun

   A person who is clever at getting what they want, sometimes by questionable means.

   He's a smooth operator who always closes the deal.

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

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