OPERATE Synonyms: 75 Similar and Opposite Words

operate

verb

ˈä-pə-ˌrāt

Definition of operate

as in to use

to control the mechanical operation of do not operate heavy machinery, including cars, after taking this medication

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in to manage

to look after and make decisions about it takes years to learn how to operate that kind of business so that it makes money

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to utilize

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 system operates by altering the magnetic field to adjust fluid viscosity inside the dampers, continuously modifying compression and rebound damping. — New Atlas, 25 July 2026 That's the cost of one employee operating below their capacity. — Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026 The models involved in the current incident involving Hugging Face reportedly operated independently for days, which would seem to meet that long-range autonomy standard. — Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 25 July 2026 That would enable it to travel further and operate for longer between resupply. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for operate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for operate

Verb

There’s often debate about whether AI is used by employers to increase productivity among its workforce or cut wage costs, according to Brian Justie, a senior research analyst with the UCLA Labor Center.

— Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 30 July 2026
Investigators said Summers was using his phone extensively before the crash, driving 73-75 mph, and tested positive for cocaine and opiates.

— Chadd Cripe. Produced with AI assistance, Idaho Statesman, 30 July 2026

Definition of use

Verb

Maloney said one of his top priorities was ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed wisely.

— Nathan Pilling July 26, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026
By constantly shifting and evolving his approach, the 68 year-old artist has managed the unlikely feat of remaining in the avant garde for nearly half a century.

— Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

Definition of manage

Verb

The actors also showcased their talent by performing scenes from the show, in tandem with clips projected onto the big panel screens for audiences.

— Diya Chacko, Oc Register, 24 July 2026
After performing very well in 2020-21, Leeds’ first season back in the Premier League after an absence of 16 years, Illan Meslier’s signature on a five-year contract was viewed as a long-term solution.

— Beren Cross, New York Times, 24 July 2026

Definition of perform

Verb

Real resilience requires multiple independent paths for critical missions, utilizing diverse government, commercial, and allied capabilities across various architectures and supply chains.

— Charles Beames, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
The rooms By utilizing a lot of natural materials like fiber rugs and reclaimed wood, no room is exactly the same.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 2026

Definition of utilize

Verb

While there’s seemingly no shortage of players and other team employees willing to complain publicly about day-to-day decision-making within the league, Engelbert’s overall job security remains too hot for most to handle.

— Annie Costabile, New York Times, 24 July 2026
MetroLoft, the company handling the renovation, was expanding the floor with a slender addition.

— Andrew Rice, Curbed, 23 July 2026

Definition of handle

Verb

The State Board of Education supervises public K–12 education across the state, overseeing educational interests in Kansas.

— Zuri Primos July 26, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026
Movie law conveniently parlays their lengthy sentence into a week’s work at the cheery, picturesque Burning Bush Camp, where supervising pastor Tom (Chris Klein) sportingly overlooks their dubious childcare creds and eccentric prayer style.

— Guy Lodge, Variety, 25 July 2026

Definition of supervise

Verb

During the LolaVie styling session, Aniston also praised Cox’s hair while applying the brand’s Glossing Detangler.

— Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026
However, If a governor is elected for a term of fewer than three years, that term will not apply against governor term limits.

— Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 29 July 2026

Definition of apply

Browse Nearby Words

operant

operate

operated

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Operate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operate. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of operate

verb

Example Sentences

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