adjective
working
Functioning, employed, or used as a practical starting point.
The cabin has running water and a working heater.
Etymology
Working describes something in active use or operation. A working assumption similarly serves as a practical basis while a task proceeds.
More examples
- Working parents often need flexible schedules.
- We use this estimate as a working budget.
- She has a working knowledge of Spanish.
Similar words
- functional
- Emphasizes that something operates properly, rather than being employed.
- employed
- Specifically describes having paid work, not functioning equipment.
- provisional
- Emphasizes temporary status and the possibility of later changes.