operate in WordNet English dictionary

1. handle and cause to function
   "do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol"; "control the lever"
   operate  control 
   
2. keep engaged
   "engaged the gears"
   engage  mesh  lock  operate 
   
3. perform as expected when applied
   "The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in"; "Does this old car still run well?"; "This old radio doesn't work anymore"
   function  work  operate  go  run 
   
4. perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense
   manoeuver  maneuver  manoeuvre  operate 
   
5. perform surgery on
   "The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life"
   operate on  operate 
   
6. happen
   "What is going on in the minds of the people?"
   operate 
   
7. direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.
   "She is running a relief operation in the Sudan"
   operate  run