operate

[ op-uh-reyt ]

verb (used without object)

, op·er·at·ed, op·er·at·ing.

1. to work, perform, or function, as a machine does:

   This engine does not operate properly.

2. to work or use a machine, apparatus, or the like.
3. to act effectively; produce an effect; exert force or influence (often followed by on or upon ):

   Their propaganda is beginning to operate on the minds of the people.

4. to perform some process of work or treatment.
5. Surgery. to perform a surgical procedure.
6. (of a drug) to produce the effect intended.
7. Military.
   1. to carry on operations in war.
   2. to give orders and accomplish military acts, as distinguished from doing staff work.
8. to carry on transactions in securities, or some commodity, especially speculatively or on a large scale.
9. Informal. to use devious means for one's own gain; insinuate oneself; finagle:

   a man who knows how to operate with the ladies.

verb (used with object)

, op·er·at·ed, op·er·at·ing.

1. to manage or use (a machine, device, etc.):

   Do you know how to operate a forklift?

2. to put or keep (a factory, industrial system, ranch, etc.) working or in operation:

   to operate a coal mine.

3. to bring about, effect, or produce, as by action or the exertion of force or influence.

operate

/ ˈɒpəˌreɪt /

verb

1. to function or cause to function
2. tr to control the functioning of

   operate a machine

3. to manage, direct, run, or pursue (a business, system, etc)
4. intr to perform a surgical operation (upon a person or animal)
5. intr to produce a desired or intended effect
6. trusually foll byon to treat or process in a particular or specific way
7. intr to conduct military or naval operations
8. intr to deal in securities on a stock exchange

Other Words From

• oper·ata·ble adjective
• pre·oper·ate verb (used without object) preoperated preoperating
• re·oper·ate verb (used with object) reoperated reoperating
• un·oper·ata·ble adjective
• un·oper·ated adjective
• well-oper·ated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of operate¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Late Latin operātus, past participle of operārī, -āre “to work, be efficacious, effect, produce,” Latin: “to busy oneself,” verbal derivative of opera effort, work, akin to opus “work”; -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of operate¹

C17: from Latin operāri to work

Example Sentences

Carr recently said on X that he will ensure the FCC “will enforce” laws that call on broadcasters “to operate in the public interest.”

From Los Angeles Times

We sold our collective soul during the election, at least the six major companies that own and operate 90 percent of what you see, read or hear did as much.

From Salon

While the arterial line is the gold standard for blood pressure measurement in intensive care units and operating rooms, it is highly invasive, limits patient mobility, and can cause pain or discomfort.

From Science Daily

It was constructed and is operated with funding from the DOE Office of Science.

From Science Daily

That Google either sell off its Android operating system or be barred from requiring the use of services like search or the Google Play app store on the platform.

From New York Times

Related Words

• achieve
• act
• complete
• conduct
• do
• engage
• keep
• move
• produce
• promote
• run
• serve
• take
• transport
• work