inoperative UK /ɪnˈɒp(ə)ɹətɪv/US /ɪnˈɑp(ə)ɹətɪv/ adjective2 •Not working or functioning; either idle or broken.Let me see if I can dial this number right quick / "I am sorry, the government you have elected is inoperative / Click. Inoperative" — 1974 •No longer legally binding.