Operate

Definition

Operate is a verb. It refers to the act of functioning or working in a specific way, controlling machinery or equipment, or performing a surgical procedure.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɑː.pə.reɪt/
• Respelling: AH-puh-rayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɒp.ə.reɪt/
• Respelling: OP-uh-rayt

Etymology

The word "operate" originates from the Latin "operari," meaning "to work," derived from "opus," meaning "work" or "labor." It entered Middle English in the late 15th century through Old French and Latin.

Derivatives

• Operation (noun)
• Operator (noun)
• Operative (adjective/noun)
• Operational (adjective)
• Overoperate (verb)

Synonyms

• Function
• Work
• Run

Antonyms

• Malfunction
• Cease
• Stop

Usage

The term "operate" is used across various contexts, such as machinery, business, and medicine. For example, "The engineer knows how to operate the crane," or "The surgeon will operate on the patient tomorrow."

Related Terms

• Function: To work or perform as intended.
• Management: The process of controlling or administering an activity or business.
• Surgery: Medical procedures performed on the body.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To function or work in a specific way:
  • Example: "The machine operates at high efficiency."
• To control or handle machinery or equipment:
  • Example: "He was trained to operate the forklift."
• To perform a surgical procedure:
  • Example: "The doctor will operate on her heart tomorrow."
• To manage or run a business or organization:
  • Example: "They operate a small café in the city."