operate

[op-uh-reyt]

verb (used without object)

operated, operating 

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 orupon ).

   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)

operated, operating 

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. 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 Word Forms

• operatable adjective
• preoperate verb (used without object)
• reoperate verb (used with object)
• unoperatable adjective
• unoperated adjective
• well-operated 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

Related Words

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