intransitive verb operated -·at′ed, operating -·at′·ing

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

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

transitive verb

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