Op"er*a`tor (?), n. [L.]
1.
One who, or that which, operates or produces an effect.
2. Surg.
One who performs some act upon the human body by means of the hand, or with instruments.
3.
A dealer in stocks or any commodity for speculative purposes; a speculator.
[Brokers' Cant]
4. Math.
The symbol that expresses the operation to be performed; -- called also facient.
© Webster 1913.