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
  • Credible Smart Home Sustainability For years, Energy Star has helped consumers identify efficient appliances and products, but now the program faces potential elimination.
    Jennifer Castenson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
  • America’s Founding Fathers had the foresight to recognize that an efficient postal service would be an essential tool of democracy.
    Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 23 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
  • Seniors who participate in the AmeriCorps programs, for example, also are involved in different but related programs that may now be less effective because AmeriCorps dollars provided transportation or other services.
    Dan Horn, The Enquirer, 23 July 2025
  • Our tester found the Rubbermaid Reveal to be especially effective for detail cleaning in tight spaces like grout lines and corners.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 22 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Operant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operant. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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