operate synonyms

operate

v.

  1. To keep in operation

    manipulate, conduct, administer; see command 2, manage 1.

  2. To be in operation

    function, work, serve, carry on, run, revolve, act, behave, fulfill, turn, roll, spin, pump, lift, spark, explode, burn, move, progress, advance, proceed, go, contact, hit, engage, transport, convey, contain, exert, click*, tick*, percolate*; see also perform 1.

    Antonyms stop*, stall*, break down. *

  3. To produce an effect

    react, act on, influence, bring about, determine, turn, bend, contrive, work, accomplish, fulfill, finish, complete, benefit, compel, promote, concern, enforce, take effect, have effect, work on, succeed, get results*, get across*, turn the trick*; see also achieve 1, produce 1.

  4. To carry out a surgical procedure

    excise, cut, remove diseased tissue, amputate, transplant an organ, set a bone, explore, carve up*; see also treat 3.

Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.