Definition of "operate" []

To perform a function; work: The motor operates smoothly. (verb-intransitive)
To perform surgery. (verb-intransitive)
To exert an influence: forces operating on the economy. (verb-intransitive)
To produce a desired or proper effect: a drug that operates quickly. (verb-intransitive)
To carry on a military or naval action or campaign. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "operate" in a sentence

"There is a reason why these three safeties operate from the trigger."
"The end does not always justify the means, Americans should not operate from the same doctrine that our enemies operate."
"Yet there are a bunch of selfish fools programmed by spin doctors who train them to operate from the gut, not the facts."

Words like "operate"

come about fallout go on hap

happen occur opera operable

operand operated operates operating

operation pass pass off take place