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Definitions

operate

[op-uh-reyt] / ˈɒp əˌreɪt /
VERB
perform, function
Synonyms
STRONGEST
achieve act complete conduct do engage keep move produce promote run serve take transport work
STRONG
accomplish advance behave bend benefit burn click compel concern contact contrive convey cook determine direct enforce exert finish fulfill go hit hum influence lift ordain percolate proceed progress react revolve roll spin tick turn
WEAK
act on be in action bring about carry on get results produce a result
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abstain cease consume destroy discontinue disenchant dishonor fail give give up halt hold idle ignore let go lose miss neglect receive refrain refuse reject release remain repulse stop
STRONG
abandon begin create decrease drop hesitate hinder maintain overlook retreat retrogress start steady
VERB
manage, use
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer conduct drive handle keep play run work
STRONG
command maneuver manipulate ordain pilot ply steer wield
WEAK
be in charge be in driver's seat be in saddle call the play call the shots call the signals carry on hold the reins make go pull the strings pull the wires run the show run things sit on top of
Antonyms
STRONGEST
halt mismanage neglect stop
STRONG
leave alone
VERB
perform surgery
Synonyms
STRONGEST
explore set
STRONG
amputate cut excise remove transplant treat
WEAK
carve up open up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This suggests that cells in the body operate with fewer available nutrients, which limits their ability to absorb nanoparticles.

From Science Daily • Apr. 20, 2026

U.S.-flagged ships already cost more than four times as much to build and operate as international ones.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

For example, Sciortino cites the impressive number of workers who can operate CNC machines - a type of computer-controlled machine tool which can cut, carve, or shape materials including wood, metal, or plastic.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

At least 80 humanoid robot companies operate in the country, five times that of the United States.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

Some other theory that this theory depends on may be at fault, some fact that has been taken for granted may be mistaken, or some piece of equipment may not operate as envisaged.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

Vocabulary lists containing operate

Space

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Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

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Nine Stories

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