cooperate

verb

Saykoh-OP-uh-rayt/koʊˈɑ.pəˌɹeɪt//kəʊˈɒp.ə.ɹeɪt/AUS/kəʉˈɔp.ə.ɹæɪt/

Formscooperates, cooperating, cooperated

5 meanings of cooperate

1
verbintransitive
To work together with other people to reach a shared goal.
Like rowing a boat together so it moves straight ahead.
The two teams agreed to cooperate on the project.
If we all cooperate, we can finish the work much faster.
Similarcollaborate, partner, coordinate, unite, ally
Oppositecompete, clash, conflict
Note
2
verbintransitive
To work together in a way that lets each side move freely without getting in the way.
Like two doors that open without hitting each other.
The dancers cooperate so no one bumps into anyone else.
When drivers cooperate at the merge, traffic keeps moving smoothly.
Similarcoexist
Oppositeinterfere
3
verbintransitive
To work well together at the same time without causing problems.
Like two hands working together to tie a shoe.
The new software and the old system cooperate without any errors.
These two medicines cooperate well in the body.
Similarcoordinate, harmonize, collaborate
Oppositeconflict, clash
4
verbintransitive
To work together on money or trade matters for shared gain.
Like neighbors sharing one tool so everyone saves money.
The two countries decided to cooperate on trade.
Small farms cooperate to sell their crops at better prices.
Similarcollaborate, partner, combine, unite
Oppositecompete
5
verbjargontransitive
To get someone to help police or prosecutors, often by giving evidence.
Like getting a teammate to switch sides and help you win.
The prosecutor was able to cooperate the driver after weeks of talks.
Police tried to cooperate one of the younger gang members.
Similarflip, turn
Note

Practice

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Origin

It came from a Latin word cooperor meaning "to work with," made from co- plus a root meaning "to work."