operational UK /ˌɒp.əˈɹeɪ.ʃə.nəl/US /ˌɑ.pəˈɹeɪ.ʃə.nəl/ adjective4 •Of or relating to operations, especially military operations. •Functioning and ready for use.Princess Leia, before your execution, you will join me at a ceremony that will make this battle station operational. No star system will dare oppose the Emperor now. — 1977 •Effective or operative. •Determined by means of practical measures. formsmore operational · most operational