English dictionary
operate
verbPronunciation
ˈɒpəɹeɪt
Audio pronunciation
Parts of speech
Definitions
verb
- perform surgery on
verb
- perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense
verb
- handle and cause to function
verb
- keep engaged
verb
- perform as expected when applied
verb
- direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.
Example sentences
The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life
do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol
control the lever
engaged the gears
The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in
Does this old car still run well?
This old radio doesn't work anymore
She is running a relief operation in the Sudan