operant

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of operant Researchers then had both groups compete against pain-free mice in a standard motivational test called a progressive ratio (PR) operant test, in which tasty treats become progressively harder to earn. Ben Thomas, Discover Magazine, 31 July 2014 The current study investigated domestic cat preferences at the individual and population level using a free operant preference assessment. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2017 Bradfield probably could have parlayed that success into some sort of cushy position with Burnett, but his operant mode was reinvention. Susan Orlean, The New Yorker, 18 Feb. 2022 As such, mobile games have developed into monsters psychologically tuned to rip thousands out of players vulnerable enough to be operant conditioned into a game addiction. Clem Chambers, Forbes, 8 Nov. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for operant
Adjective
  • In some ways, the purpose seems obvious — an efficient way to refine your hand-eye coordination before a big match, like Alcaraz’s showdown with American Taylor Fritz on Friday in the Wimbledon men’s semifinals.
    Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 11 July 2025
  • By having the facility on site, SpaceX hopes to make the delivery of those gases more efficient by eliminating the need to have dozens of trucks deliver them from Brownsville.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Any skin-care connoisseur knows red light therapy to be one of the most efficacious means to treating one’s complexion, both in office and at home.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • Her medical training shaped how the brand formulates balancing potent actives with skin-soothing ingredients making sure the final product is efficacious without compromising the skin barrier.
    Meggen Harris, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Will prospective politicos and those holding positions of power prompt effectual projects to maintain upkeep and ensure each and every citizen is safe rather than pushing self-serving, divisive social agendas?
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 16 Jan. 2024
  • Others argue even if wilderness therapy is effectual for some, its premise is flawed.
    Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024
Adjective
  • The constitution is meant to provide a stable framework for our government, not a patchwork of temporary fixes or politically expedient changes.
    Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 July 2025
  • Aside from the logistical and legal issues, executive orders and CMMI demonstration projects haven’t proven to be an expedient way of bringing about changes in drug pricing.
    Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • According to the team, this research indicates that ghost crabs are effective predators of the early life phase of sea turtles with a taste for meat.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 10 July 2025
  • Using effective property management practices and adopting technology can help reach these objectives.
    Nathan Levinson, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.

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