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1. Direct or control (projects, businesses, etc.)
   "She is operating a relief operation in the Sudan";
   - run
    
2. Perform as expected when applied
   "This old radio doesn't operate anymore";
   - function, work, go, run
    
3. Handle and cause to function
   "do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol";
   - control
    
4. Perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defence
   - manoeuver [non-standard], maneuver [US], manoeuvre [Brit, Cdn]
    
5. Keep engaged
   "operated the gears";
   - engage, mesh, lock
    
6. (medicine) perform surgery on
   "The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life";
   - operate on

Derived forms: operated, operates, operating

See also: operating

Type of: care for, direct, displace, go, manipulate, move, treat

Antonym: withdraw

Encyclopedia: Operate