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op·er·ate

operate

 
 
pronunciation:
a p reIt
parts of speech:
intransitive verb, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: intransitive verb
inflections: operates, operating, operated
definition 1: to function in a correct or effective manner, as a machine.
These machines operate by remote control.The computer has been dropped a number of times, but it's still operating.
synonyms:
function, go, run, work
similar words:
act, behave, handle, perform
definition 2: to be in the process of action; carry on affairs.
similar words:
act, function, perform, work
definition 3: to perform a surgical procedure (often fol. by "on").
The surgeon is still operating and cannot speak with you now.The doctors operated on his heart last year and now it's his spleen.She operated on a very young child this morning.
similar words:
open
definition 4: (informal) to act with skillful deception so as to improve one's own situation.
synonyms:
finagle, machinate
similar words:
insinuate onself, maneuver, plot, scheme
 
part of speech: transitive verb
definition: to control the functioning of a machine or the like.
She operates a drill press at work.He's learning how to operate his new computer.
synonyms:
run, work
similar words:
drive, handle, use
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derivation: operatable (adj.)
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