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Added 9 October 2026

operate

/ˈɒpəɹeɪt/ verb

Latin root: operātus Wiktionary

verb Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about operate at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

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
Handle and cause to function.
do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol

Origin

From Latin operātus, perfect passive participle of operor (“to work, labor, toil, have effect”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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