operate (third-person singular simple present operates, present participle operating, simple past and past participle operated) (transitive or intransitive) To perform a work or labour; to exert power or strength, physical or mechanical; to act.
To operate typically means to control or manage the functioning of a machine, system, or process. It can also mean to manipulate or perform a specific action, often in a skillful manner.
There are 13 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb operate, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
Definition of operate verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
operate definition: perform a task or function. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. Discover expressions like "operate on", "operate behind the scenes", "operate in the dark".
The term operate plays a vital role in various contexts, encompassing everything from machinery to systems and organizations. Understanding what it means to operate is essential for effective communication and practical applications in daily life. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and usage of operate, shedding light on how this term shapes our understanding of ...
to manage or use (a machine, device, etc.): to operate a switchboard. to put or keep (a factory, industrial system, ranch, etc.) working or in operation: to operate a coal mine.