Operate Definition & Meaning
operate
- verb
- direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.; "She is running a relief operation in the Sudan"
- perform as expected when applied; "The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in"; "Does this old car still run well?"; "This old radio doesn't work anymore"
- handle and cause to function; "do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol"; "control the lever"
- perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense
- happen; "What is going on in the minds of the people?"
- keep engaged; "engaged the gears"
- perform surgery on; "The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life"
"Operate" in song lyrics
See how operate is used in real songs:
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"Cuz like y'all dogs, we operate"
69 Boyz — Woof Woof -
"Never not, know what to say I know how brainwaves operate"
Aceyalone — Say -
"I leave footprints in fours, two for bi ??, two operate ??"
Aesop Rock — The Tugboat Complex Pt. 3
Words that rhyme with operate
Usage tips for "operate"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "operate" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for operate to find words that pair well.