Entry Word: operation

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a specific task with which a person or group is charged <a secret operation which, if it is discovered, the government will deny any knowledge of> — see mission
2 a usually fixed or ordered series of actions or events leading to a result <a specific mathematical operation is required in order to get the correct answer> — see process 1
3 the act or activity of looking after and making decisions about something <the operation of a convenience store can be quite stressful> — see conduct 1
4 the act or practice of employing something for a particular purpose <that's the only operation for which anyone would ever need this weapon> — see use 1