1. Handle and cause to function
   "do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol";
   - control
    
2. Perform as intended or designed
   "This old radio doesn't operate anymore";
   - function, work, go, run
    
3. Direct or control (projects, businesses, etc.)
   "She is operating a relief operation in the Sudan";
   - run
    
4. Keep engaged
   "operated the gears";
   - engage, mesh, lock
    
5. (medicine) perform surgery on
   "The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life";
   - operate on

Derived forms: operates, operated, operating

See also: operating

Type of: care for, direct, displace, do, execute, manipulate, move, perform, treat

Encyclopedia: Operate