Definition of operatenext
1
as in to use
to control the mechanical operation of do not operate heavy machinery, including cars, after taking this medication

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2
3
as in to perform
to produce a desired effect the medicine will take an hour or so to operate the first time you use it

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4
as in to utilize
to put into action or service wouldn't dream of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of operate The brand previously operated a Beverly Hills residency within facialist Shani Darden’s studio, though increasing demand ultimately led to a transition into the stand-alone West Hollywood location. Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 27 Mar. 2026 Petro has also emphasized the need to modernize the Hercules fleet — military tactical transport aircraft capable of operating from rough, unpaved runways. ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026 Later this year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement will begin operating a sprawling detention center out of what is currently an empty industrial warehouse. Lautaro Grinspan, AJC.com, 27 Mar. 2026 Cherry Creek, the state’s fourth-largest K-12 school district, enrolls 51,844 students and operates under a $840 million budget. Jessica Seaman, Denver Post, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for operate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for operate
Verb
  • There are no fitness facilities, but guests are welcome to use Surin's large gym and a sauna just a short shuttle ride away.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Taylor, the policing expert, said a PIT maneuver is a strong tool, but should be used sparingly.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The moves follow South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's instruction on Tuesday to activate a preemptive emergency response system, as Seoul stepped up efforts to manage the economic fallout from the conflict.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 25 Mar. 2026
  • This project offers an alternative to a byproduct that distilleries currently find difficult and expensive to manage.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 25 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • But research also suggests that slower walking performed over a longer duration may initially produce greater total fat loss in overweight individuals than faster walking performed for shorter periods.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 29 Mar. 2026
  • But that’s exactly how the night climaxed on Friday (March 27) when the uncanny Argentine duo CA7RIEL y Paco Amoroso took over Canvas on 10th in Chelsea, New York to perform their electrifying new album, Free Spirits, for the first time.
    Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Ultra has hired off-duty fire rescue crews to patrol the event, utilizing emergency aid kits and scooters to navigate the crowds and get patients to an ambulance faster.
    Larry Seward, CBS News, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Officers will sometimes use a felony that occurs during a traffic stop or enforcement interaction as cause to initiate a chase and utilize a PIT maneuver, but if the underlying reason for the interaction wasn’t a violent felony, the move likely shouldn’t be used, Taylor said.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer leeks to a cutting board and let sit until cool enough to handle.
    Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Mar. 2026
  • The moody Moon paces into your busy 3rd house, energizing your ability to handle quick stops and urgent tasks.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The additional $10 million the department is requesting would pay for two supervising attorneys, 25 attorneys, 3 senior legal analysts and one associate governmental program analyst, the request says.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 23 Mar. 2026
  • The lawsuit also claims that the city failed to properly hire, supervise, train and retain VonBank.
    Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Uber and Rivian didn’t disclose how the new driverless vehicles will work, including having their own app or as a special request on the existing Uber app.
    Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
  • The bond works like a mortgage or home loan, according to the ISD website.
    Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Eligible establishments would have to apply, and pay a $500 application fee.
    Nikki DeMentri, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • This also applies to bedding—trading a heavy winter-time duvet for one with a lighter material like a linen or cotton percale can be a nice refresh.
    Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 26 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Operate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operate. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

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