■ verb
1》 (with reference to a machine, process, etc.) function or control the functioning of: market forces were allowed to ~ freely.
2》 (with reference to an organization) manage or be managed and run.
↘(of an armed force) conduct military activities.
3》 be in effect.
4》 perform a surgical operation.
Origin
C17: from L. operat- , operari , from opus , oper- 'work'.