Definition of: operate

(op′ə·rāt) v. ·at·ed, ·at·ing v.i.
1. To act or function, especially with force or influence; work.
2. To bring about or produce the proper or intended effect.
3. To perform a surgical operation.
4. To deal in securities, stocks, etc., especially speculatively.
5. To carry on a military or naval operation: usually with against.
—v.t.
6. To control the working or function of, as a machine.
7. To manage or conduct the affairs of: to operate a railroad.
8. To bring about or cause. [<L operatus, pp. of operari work, have an effect <opus, operis a work]
—op′er·at′a·ble adjective