operator op‧e‧ra‧tor [ˈɒpəreɪtə ǁ ˈɑːpəreɪtər] noun [countable]
• a computer operator
• This machine requires a skilled operator.
2. a person or company that operates a particular business:
ˈtour ˌoperator
TRAVEL a company that arranges holidays for people, including their travel, hotels etc:
• There is likely to be a battle between the major tour operators this summer.
3. someone who works on a telephone switchboard, who you can call for help when you have problems:
• I tried calling the operator.
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operator UK US /ˈɒpəreɪtər/ noun [C]
► someone whose job is to use and control a machine, vehicle, or piece of equipment: »
a camera/crane/forklift operator
»The system lets you talk directly to a call centre operator.
► a company that runs a particular type of business: »
a cable/mobile-phone/hotel operator
»The company is the owner and operator of several radio stations.
► COMMUNICATIONS a person who connects people on a phone system: »
a switchboard operator
»He worked as a 911 operator with the Cincinnati Police Department.
Financial and business terms. 2012.