operate operate /ˈɔpɝˌeɪt/

verb

1. () Direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.  ( run , operate )
   direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.
    She is running a relief operation in the Sudan
   She is running a relief operation in the Sudan
   
2. () Perform as expected when applied  ( go , run , function , operate , work )
   perform as expected when applied
    The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in
   The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in
    Does this old car still run well?
   Does this old car still run well?
    This old radio doesn't work anymore
   This old radio doesn't work anymore
   
3. () Handle and cause to function  ( control , operate )
   handle and cause to function
    Do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol
   do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol
    Control the lever
   control the lever
   
4. () Perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense  ( maneuver [American] , manoeuver [Non-standard] , manoeuvre [Canadian, British] , operate )
   perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense
   
5. (medicine) perform surgery on  ( operate , operate on )
   (medicine) perform surgery on
    The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life
   The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life
   
6. Keep engaged  ( engage , operate , mesh , lock )
   keep engaged
    Engaged the gears
   engaged the gears