Thesaurus results for OPERANT

operant

adjective

Definition of operant

as in efficient

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of operant Bradfield probably could have parlayed that success into some sort of cushy position with Burnett, but his operant mode was reinvention. — Susan Orlean, The New Yorker, 18 Feb. 2022 As such, mobile games have developed into monsters psychologically tuned to rip thousands out of players vulnerable enough to be operant conditioned into a game addiction. — Clem Chambers, Forbes, 8 Nov. 2021 The current study investigated domestic cat preferences at the individual and population level using a free operant preference assessment. — Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2017

Recent Examples of Synonyms for operant

Adjective

The 24-year-old has been efficient in the final third, contributing goals and assists, while being composed and attentive with and without the ball in deeper areas.

— Art de Roché, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026
Unitree’s robots remain less efficient than human workers and must be retrained from scratch for each new task, Wang said.

— Anniek Bao,Jenni Reid,Jenny Lee, CNBC, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of efficient

Adjective

Others argue even if wilderness therapy is effectual for some, its premise is flawed.

— Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024
Will prospective politicos and those holding positions of power prompt effectual projects to maintain upkeep and ensure each and every citizen is safe rather than pushing self-serving, divisive social agendas?

— Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 16 Jan. 2024

Definition of effectual

Adjective

While his expedient return to action after those injuries was commendable, the Mets are wondering if a lack of rehab took its toll.

— Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 19 July 2026
To avoid causing voters financial pain, lawmakers may try to take the more politically expedient path by allowing Social Security and Medicare to tap general revenue that funds other parts of the federal government.

— Jason Ma, Fortune, 6 June 2026

Definition of expedient

Adjective

When those things do start happening, the scares are every bit as effective as the buildup promises.

— Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 26 Aug. 2026
The deal with Porsche will be effective once the Indian software giant completes the acquisition of MHP, which employs around 4,500 people.

— Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of effective

Browse Nearby Words

opera hats

operant

operate

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“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of operant

adjective

Example Sentences

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