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operate definition

op·er·ate (äpər āt′)

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
    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

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