/ ˈɒpəreɪt; NAmE ˈɑːp-/ verb
MACHINE
1.
[ v ] to work in a particular way
SYN function :
Most domestic freezers operate at below −18 °C.
Solar panels can only operate in sunlight.
( figurative )
Some people can only operate well under pressure.
2.
[ vn ] to use or control a machine or make it work :
What skills are needed to operate this machinery?
SYSTEM / PROCESS / SERVICE
3.
to be used or working; to use sth or make it work :
[ v ]
A new late-night service is now operating.
The regulation operates in favour of married couples.
[ vn ]
The airline operates flights to 25 countries.
France operates a system of subsidized loans to dairy farmers.
OF BUSINESS / ORGANIZATION
4.
[ v ] to work in a particular way or from a particular place :
They plan to operate from a new office in Edinburgh.
Illegal drinking clubs continue to operate in the city.
MEDICAL
5.
[ v ] operate (on sb) (for sth) to cut open sb's body in order to remove a part that has a disease or to repair a part that is damaged :
The doctors operated last night.
We will have to operate on his eyes.
OF SOLDIERS
6.
[ v ] to be involved in military activities in a place :
Troops are operating from bases in the north.
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WORD ORIGIN
early 17th cent.: from Latin operat- done by labour, from the verb operari , from opus , oper- work.