Meaning & Definition of word "Operate"

Operate

/ˈɒpəreɪt/

1. To control the functioning of a machine, process, or system.
- Example: He learned how to operate the new software program efficiently.
2. To conduct business or a particular activity.
- Example: The company operates in over 50 countries worldwide.
3. To perform a surgical procedure.
- Example: The doctors will operate on the patient to remove the tumor.
4. To be in effect or to have an effect.
- Example: The regulations operate differently in each state.
5. To deal effectively with something.
- Example: He struggled to operate under the pressure of the deadline.

From Latin 'operari' meaning 'to work, labor'.

operate under pressure:

To perform well in stressful situations.

operate on a need-to-know basis:

Restricted access to information only to those who need it.

operate by the book:

To strictly follow rules and guidelines.

operation:

A process of functioning or action.

operator:

A person or entity that operates something.

Meaning: To be in control or charge of

Example Sentence: She really knows how to operate in this industry.

Meaning: To engage in activities, often in a clever or shrewd way

Example Sentence: He's pretty good at operating behind the scenes.