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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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 O’Connell also was operating with minimal cap space (due to the immense dead cap hits from Cousins and Danielle Hunter) and a lack of production from recent drafts. Alec Lewis, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025 In 2024, operating revenue for the nonprofit newspaper was $27.9 million, a 6% year-over-year decline that landed the Sun-Times in the red by more than $1.1 million — despite the philanthropic contributions, the filing showed. Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025 This campaign, though, has seen Bellingham operating in a deeper role. The Athletic Uk Staff, The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025 This story was originally published by KABC, an ABC owned and operated television station. Kabc Staff, ABC News, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for operate 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for operate
Verb
  • Dash makes compact kitchen appliances that are super easy to use, clean, and store.
    Brenda Stolyar, WIRED, 31 Jan. 2025
  • In developing the game, members of the group used the Bible to choose the tests.
    Isabella Wandermurem, TIME, 31 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Then, in December, the National Park Service issued its final rule restricting bear baiting on Alaska lands managed by the NPS.
    Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 31 Jan. 2025
  • Upon arriving at the island inn managed by smiley, panicky Jack McBrayer, Jim and Margot escalate things quickly after an initial agreement to share the tiny venue between their very different wedding parties.
    Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune, 30 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Marczak still played and performed, but largely for other bands.
    Britt Julious, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025
  • Trenitalia performed well in the booking experience, reliability and traveler experience categories.
    Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • As a general rule of thumb, Adidas jackets that utilize polyester or nylon tend to boast the highest moisture-wicking capability.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 31 Jan. 2025
  • This marks Spanx’s first-ever denim line, utilizing innovative technology to redefine fit and comfort.
    Essence, Essence, 31 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Most times, things usually go smoothly during filming, but once — right at the end of a shoot, just before the last shot — the table couldn’t handle it and everything fell.
    Jordan Greene, People.com, 30 Jan. 2025
  • Relievers such as Tyler Holton, Will Vest and Jason Foley also handled hitters well from both sides of the plate.
    Cody Stavenhagen, The Athletic, 30 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Summary: This position will supervise and lead a team of engineering and environmental subject matter experts who perform detailed review of environmental and financial documents related to infrastructure project scopes and planning.
    Chyna Blackmon, Charlotte Observer, 29 Jan. 2025
  • Initial meetings should be supervised, and if the elder dog is becoming agitated, they should be separated or distracted before trying again later.
    Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Some, including President Trump, have wondered if those working on air traffic control had been hired based on DEI goals, rather than professional qualifications.
    Rachel Wolf, Fox News, 31 Jan. 2025
  • RedBird Capital Partner is a primary investor with a long history of working with sports properties.
    Mac Engel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • The 30% promo also applies to Mexico City and Cancún, The carrier transported more than 1.2 million passengers in 2024 and expects that to increase to 1.7 million in 2025.
    Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 25 Jan. 2025
  • See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
    Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 24 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Operate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/operate. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.

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