Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for operate. Search instead for operce.
Definitions

operate

[op-uh-reyt] / ˈɒp əˌreɪt /
VERB
perform, function
Synonyms
STRONGEST
achieve act complete conduct do engage keep move produce promote run serve take transport work
STRONG
accomplish advance behave bend benefit burn click compel concern contact contrive convey cook determine direct enforce exert finish fulfill go hit hum influence lift ordain percolate proceed progress react revolve roll spin tick turn
WEAK
act on be in action bring about carry on get results produce a result
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abstain cease consume destroy discontinue disenchant dishonor fail give give up halt hold idle ignore let go lose miss neglect receive refrain refuse reject release remain repulse stop
STRONG
abandon begin create decrease drop hesitate hinder maintain overlook retreat retrogress start steady
VERB
manage, use
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer conduct drive handle keep play run work
STRONG
command maneuver manipulate ordain pilot ply steer wield
WEAK
be in charge be in driver's seat be in saddle call the play call the shots call the signals carry on hold the reins make go pull the strings pull the wires run the show run things sit on top of
Antonyms
STRONGEST
halt mismanage neglect stop
STRONG
leave alone
VERB
perform surgery
Synonyms
STRONGEST
explore set
STRONG
amputate cut excise remove transplant treat
WEAK
carve up open up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“It means the ability to operate where and when you choose, in selective times and places without prohibitive interference.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Find out whether your adviser candidate is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, and whether or not they operate under a dual-registered model.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

The entire hamlet can only operate if Flores’ regular gasoline deliveries make it through on Highway 1 every two weeks.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Many Moroccan companies operate in Senegal, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, energy, construction, mining, banking and insurance sectors.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Dr. Atkinson told Mom and Dad he needed to operate to see what was going on.

From "Ugly" by Robert Hoge

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.