Operate
ˈɒpəreɪt
Definitions
3 meaningsTo control the functioning of something, such as a machine, a business, or a system.
ˈɒpəreɪt
To control the functioning of something.
The engineer operated the heavy machinery.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game with a complicated controller. Operating is like using the buttons and sticks to make the game do what you want. It's about making something work.
👶 For kids: To make something work, like pushing buttons on a toy.
More Examples
How do you operate this device?
The store operates from 9 am to 5 pm.
How It's Used
"The software operates the computer system."
"The company operates a fleet of trucks."
To function or perform in a certain manner or according to a particular set of rules or principles.
ˈɒpəreɪt
To function or perform in a particular way.
The new system operates much faster.
💡 Simply: Imagine a car engine. It *operates* by burning fuel and turning the wheels. This meaning is about how something works or what it does, based on its rules.
👶 For kids: To work in a certain way, like a clock that always tells the time.
More Examples
The agreement operates under strict guidelines.
The company operates with a focus on sustainability.
How It's Used
"The law of gravity operates in this universe."
"The business operates at a loss."
To perform a surgical procedure on a person or animal.
ˈɒpəreɪt
To perform a surgical procedure.
The doctor will operate next week.
💡 Simply: Imagine a doctor using tools to help fix something inside someone's body during a surgery. That’s when they *operate*.
👶 For kids: When a doctor helps someone get better by fixing something inside their body.
More Examples
He needs to operate to save her life.
The specialist operated on the patient's heart.
How It's Used
"The surgeon operated on the patient to remove the tumor."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
operate on someone's behalf
To act or function for someone; to represent someone's interests.
"The lawyer operates on behalf of their client in court."
operate under pressure
To function or work effectively despite stressful conditions.
"The team performed well and operated under pressure during the critical game."
From Latin *operari* 'to work, be at work', from *opus* 'work'.
The word 'operate' has been used since the 17th century and initially referred to the physical act of working or performing an action. The surgical meaning developed later.
Memory tip
Think of a pilot operating a plane – they control its functions.
Word Origin
"work, labor"