Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition operate in American English

operate verb

verb
/ˈɑpəˌreɪt/
1

if equipment operates, it works and does what it is intended to do

Example

The ventilation equipment was not operating properly.

Example

Many computers were still operating on a two-digit dating system.

Example

The motor operates at very high speeds.

Synonyms and related words
operate come on function
1.1

to use and control a piece of equipment

Example

You should not operate machinery after taking this medication.

Example

My job was to operate the telephone switchboard.

Synonyms and related words
activate actuate coax
2

if an organization or company operates, it does its work

Example

The company has been operating in South America for two years.

Example

The new business will operate as a subsidiary of our company.

Example

All the parties have to operate within the democratic system.

Example

The organization operates on a nonprofit basis.

Synonyms and related words
account after hours asset
2.1

to run a company or organization

Example

The casino is operated as a separate business from the hotel.

Synonyms and related words
account after hours asset
3

to cut into part of someone's body for medical reasons

Example

Surgeons had to operate to remove the bullet.

Example

The driver of the car was operated on immediately.

Example

We may have to operate on your leg.

Synonyms and related words
anaesthetize anesthetize attend
4

to organize a service or system and make it available to people

Example

This government agency operates the war on drugs.

Example

a license to operate an airport limousine service

Synonyms and related words
structure reorganize prioritize
4.1

if a service or system operates, it exists and is available

Example

Flights operate daily from Miami.

Synonyms and related words
available public spare exist operate live
5

if something such as a rule, idea, or fact operates, it exists and has an effect in a particular situation

Example

Racism operates at many levels, conscious and unconscious.

Example

Very different factors were operating in the local and national elections.

Example

This law effectively operates as a tax on education.

Synonyms and related words
affect shape impact
6

if someone operates in a particular way, that is how they achieve what they want to do

Example

She won't argue with you, that's not how she operates.

Example

Carlson operated by gaining people's confidence and then taking their money.

Example

The sales force usually operates as a team.

Synonyms and related words
progress get on with get ahead
Definition operate in American English