operation
Pluraloperations (some meanings)
- 1The way a machine, system, or group works, or the fact that it is working.
The operation of the new machine saves a lot of time.
Safe operation of the crane needs careful training.
UsageA machine that is working is in operation. A new rule comes into operation when it starts.
Note
- 2A business or other group that people run to make money or provide a service.
Like a shop or store that runs day to day to get a job done.
They run a small farming operation outside town.
The family operation employs about thirty workers.
UsageYou run an operation. People often say what it does: a farming operation.
Similarbusiness, enterprise, company, concern
- 3A medical treatment where a doctor cuts into the body to fix or remove something.
Like a mechanic opening up an engine to fix a broken part inside.
The operation took four hours, and the surgeons removed the tumor.
She needs an operation on her knee next month.
UsageYou have an operation, and a doctor performs it. Say an operation on your knee.
Note
- 4
- 5A planned activity that people carry out to reach a goal.
Like planning a big party, where every step is worked out ahead of time.
The rescue operation saved twelve hikers stranded on the mountain.
They planned the whole operation for months before starting.
UsagePeople carry out an operation. Often the aim comes first: a rescue operation.
Similareffort, undertaking, drive, exercise
- 6In math or computing, a step like adding or multiplying that takes values and gives a result.
Like a machine that takes in numbers and hands back a new one.
Addition is the first operation children learn in school.
The calculator performs each operation in the correct order.
Note
Less common meaning
- 7The effect or influence that something produces.
Note
Practice
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Origin
From Latin operatio, from the verb operor meaning "I work," from opus meaning "work." It came into English through Old French.
Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 5 facts
- Operation derives from Latin operatio. en.wiktionary.org
- Latin operatio derives from the verb operor. en.wiktionary.org
- Operor means “I work,” as the first-person singular present form. en.wiktionary.org
- Operor ultimately derives from opus, meaning “work.” en.wiktionary.org
- Operation entered English through Old French. en.wiktionary.org