operating

The word “operating” means currently running or functioning. In plain terms, describes something that is running or currently in use, often paired with a noun like "costs" or "system.".

“Operating” is pronounced O-puh-ray-tihng (/ˈɑpəɹeɪtɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “operating” used in a sentence: “The plant's operating costs rose sharply last year.”

“Operating” is an adjective.

“Operating” is a very common word in modern English.

The two are close but not identical. Operating usually describes something actively running right now, or relates to day-to-day running, as in operating costs. Operational often means ready and able to function, or fully in service, as in 'the system is now operational'. Operating stresses activity; operational stresses readiness and capability.

In business, operating describes things tied to a company's core, day-to-day activities. Operating costs are the everyday expenses of running the business, and operating profit is what remains from those core activities before interest and tax. The word separates the ordinary running of the business from one-off or financial items.

An operating system is the main software that runs a computer or device, such as Windows, macOS, or Android. It manages the hardware, memory, and other programs, acting as the bridge between you and the machine. Here, 'operating' reflects its role in keeping the whole system running and functioning smoothly.

When operating means running or functioning, its opposites include idle, stopped, shut down, out of service, or non-operational. A machine that is operating is switched on and working; one that is not operating is off or broken. The exact antonym depends on why the thing has stopped running.