operate

Operate is defined as to perform a function or medical procedure.

(verb)

  1. An example of to operate is making a call on your cell phone.
  2. An example of to operate is driving a car.
  3. An example of to operate is a doctor removing someones appendix.

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See operate in Webster's New World College Dictionary

intransitive verb operated, operating

  1. to be in action so as to produce an effect; act; function; work
  2. to bring about a desired or appropriate effect; have a certain influence
  3. to carry on strategic military movements
  4. to perform a surgical operation

Origin: < L operatus, pp. of operari, to work < opus (gen. operis): see opus

transitive verb

  1. Now Rare to bring about as an effect
    1. to put or keep in action; work (a machine, etc.)
    2. to conduct or direct the affairs of (a business, etc.); manage
  2. Informal to perform a surgical operation on

See operate in American Heritage Dictionary 4

verb op·er·at·ed, op·er·at·ing, op·er·ates
verb, intransitive
  1. To perform a function; work: The motor operates smoothly.
  2. To perform surgery.
  3. a. To exert an influence: forces operating on the economy.
    b. To produce a desired or proper effect: a drug that operates quickly.
  4. To carry on a military or naval action or campaign.
  5. Informal To conduct business in an irregular or devious manner: drug dealers operating in residential and urban areas.
verb, transitive
  1. To control the functioning of; run: operate a sewing machine.
  2. To conduct the affairs of; manage: operate a business.

Origin:

Origin: Latin operārī, operāt-

Origin: , from opera, work; see op- in Indo-European roots

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