Origin: Latin suffix -al
Operational has 5 different meanings across 1 category:
pertaining to a process or series of actions for achieving a result
"operational difficulties"
"they assumed their operational positions"
fit or ready for use or service
"the toaster was still functional even after being dropped"
"the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable"
"an operational aircraft"
"the dishwasher is now in working order"
(military) of or intended for or involved in military operations
"The newly deployed squadron is fully operational and ready to conduct air strikes over the conflict zone."
being in effect or operation
"de facto apartheid is still operational even in the `new' African nations"
"bus service is in operation during the emergency"
"the company had several operating divisions"
Of or relating to operations, especially military operations.
"The general confirmed that all units were operational before launching the surprise attack."
In plain English: Operational means something is working properly and ready to be used.
"The new subway line is finally operational after months of delays."
Usage: Operational means functioning properly and ready for use, such as when a machine is working or a system is active. Avoid using it to describe something that merely involves tasks or procedures; instead, use "operational" only when referring to the state of being in action.
The word operational comes from the noun operation with the suffix -al. It entered English to describe something that is capable of functioning or being carried out.