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

But questions remain about how the Lebanese troops would operate against Hezbollah, which is heavily armed and backed by Iran, amid fears this could exacerbate sectarian tensions.

From BBC

It's not clear whether the bonus has in fact been paid out, but the regulator will insist that it is not paid by the operating company, and must be borne by the company owners.

From BBC

In fact, “Wicked” operates with its audience constantly in mind, keeping an amiable pace that manages not to be bogged down by too many songs or unnecessary reprises.

From Salon

She said she was still operating it and "delivering local sessions".

From BBC

Collectively, this should lower the operating costs of the fusion system.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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