operate

[ˈɑːpəreɪt]

operate Definition

• 1. to control the functioning of a machine, process, or system
• 2. to perform a surgical operation on a person or animal
• 3. to work or function in a particular way

Using operate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "operate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The company operates a fleet of delivery trucks.

• Example

  The surgeon will operate on the patient tomorrow morning.

• Example

  The new software operates much faster than the old version.

• Example

  The amusement park operates from 10am to 8pm during the summer season.

operate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for operate

• run
• manage
• control
• execute
• handle

Antonyms for operate

• malfunction
• fail
• break down

Phrases with operate

• operate on all cylinders

  to be working at full capacity or efficiency

  Example

  After a good night's sleep, I was finally operating on all cylinders again.

• operate under the radar

  to do something without attracting attention or being noticed

  Example

  The company has been operating under the radar for years, avoiding any major scandals or controversies.

• operate within the law

  to act in accordance with the laws and regulations of a particular jurisdiction

  Example

  As a responsible business, we always strive to operate within the law and maintain high ethical standards.

Origins of operate

from Latin 'operari', meaning 'to work'

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Summary: operate in Brief

To 'operate' [ˈɑːpəreɪt] means to control the functioning of a machine, process, or system, perform a surgical operation, or work or function in a particular way. Examples include 'The company operates a fleet of delivery trucks,' and 'The new software operates much faster than the old version.' Phrases like 'operate on all cylinders' denote full capacity or efficiency, while 'operate under the radar' means to avoid attention. 'Operate within the law' implies adherence to legal and ethical standards.