Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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.

By 2035, the company plans to operate more than 7,000 satellites, broadening its coverage.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

These pressures are already driving the development of autonomous systems that can operate without continuous human control.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

“The agents, they don’t know how to operate in these situations,” said Christy Lopez, a former Justice Department attorney who spent years investigating misconduct by law enforcement.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2026

About 15 Iranian sailors will remain in Sri Lanka to operate the Irins Bushehr, which is anchored off Trincomalee in the northeast of the island.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Doctors felt it was inadvisable to operate, so he was sent home with little hope of recovery.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Vocabulary lists containing operate

Space

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Nine Stories

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!