operate
verb
op·er·ate
| \ ˈä-pə-ˌrāt
, ˈä-ˌprāt\
, ˈä-ˌprāt\
operated;
operating
Definition of operate
1
: to perform a function : exert power or influence
factors operating against our success
2
: to produce an appropriate effect
the drug operated quickly
3a
: to perform an operation or a series of operations
The refinery is planning to begin operating as soon as possible.
b
: to perform surgery
The surgeon has been operating all morning.
c
: to carry on a military or naval action or mission
The army will operate in conjunction with the air force.
4
: to follow a course of conduct that is often irregular
crooked gamblers operating in the club
1
: bring about, effect
2a
: to cause to function : work
operate an automobile
b
: to put or keep in operation
operated a grocery store
3
: to perform an operation on
especially
: to perform surgery
—usually used with on
operate on a patient operating on a brain tumor