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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.

Barshay’s arrival helped set Paul Weiss on a path toward extraordinary growth in profit but also, in the eyes of some, made it operate more akin to a corporation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

What’s more, there are countless small yet memorable visual and narrative details to adore — things that, at first sight, look like bizarre directorial choices, but ultimately operate in the service of this gonzo story.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Quantum batteries operate using core principles of quantum mechanics, including superposition and entanglement, rather than the chemical processes used in today's batteries.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

The only vehicle he should be allowed to operate is a golf cart in the confines of a golf course.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Studies have shown that racial schemas operate not only as part of conscious, rational deliberations, but also automatically—without conscious awareness or intent.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.