op·er·ate ( p -r t )v. op·er·at·ed, op·er·at·ing, op·er·ates v.intr.1. To perform a function; work: The motor operates smoothly. 2. To perform surgery. 3. a. To exert an influence: forces operating on the economy. b. To produce a desired or proper effect: a drug that operates quickly. 4. To carry on a military or naval action or campaign. 5. Informal To conduct business in an irregular or devious manner: drug dealers operating in residential and urban areas. v.tr.1. To control the functioning of; run: operate a sewing machine. 2. To conduct the affairs of; manage: operate a business.
[Latin oper r , oper t-, from opera, work; see op- in Indo-European roots.] |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Adj. | 1. | operating - involved in a kind of operation; "the operating conditions of the oxidation pond" |
| 2. | operating - being in effect or operation; "de facto apartheid is still operational even in the `new' African nations"- Leslie Marmon Silko; "bus service is in operation during the emergency"; "the company had several operating divisions"operative - being in force or having or exerting force; "operative regulations"; "the major tendencies operative in the American political system" |
Translationsoperating [ˈɔpəreɪtɪŋ] adj (
Comm) [
costs, profit] →
d'exploitation;
(Med);
operating [ˈɔpəreɪtɪŋ] adj (
COMM) [
costs etc] →
di gestione;