Operative, n.
A skilled worker; an artisan; esp., one who operates a machine in a mill or manufactory.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Operative, a.
1. Having the power of acting; hence, exerting force, physical or moral; active in the production of effects; as, an operative motive. It holds in all operative principles. South.
2. Producing the appropriate or designed effect; efficacious; as, an operative dose, rule, or penalty.
3. (Surg.)
Based upon, or consisting of, an operation or operations; as, operative surgery.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for operative; he lists it under artist.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.