English Reference
verb · adjective · noun

operating

v. · adj. · n.
US /ˈɑpɝˌeɪtɪŋ/ UK /ˈɒpəɹˌeɪtɪŋ/ op·er·at·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.the act of a machine working or a person controlling a machine.

    v.the present participle of 'operate', describing the action of a machine functioning or a person controlling its mechanism.

    Simple

    The factory was operating at full capacity to meet the holiday demand.

    In context

    The technician monitored the console while the turbine was operating, ensuring that the vibration levels remained within the safety parameters.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    v.the act of managing or running a business or organization.

    v.the present participle of 'operate', referring to the management or conduct of a business, agency, or system.

    Simple

    The company is now operating in over twenty different countries.

    In context

    By operating under a franchise model, the brand was able to expand rapidly across the continent without significant capital investment.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    v.the act of a doctor performing surgery on a patient.

    v.the present participle of 'operate', specifically referring to the performance of a surgical procedure on a patient.

    Simple

    The surgeons have been operating for five hours to repair the damage.

    In context

    The medical team was operating under extreme pressure, as the patient's vitals began to fluctuate during the delicate neurosurgical procedure.

    performing surgery
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.describes something that is currently working or being used.

    adj.describing a state of being in action or functional; often used in technical or business contexts.

    Simple

    The elevator is not in an operating state at the moment.

    In context

    The airline's operating costs have risen sharply due to the sudden increase in global fuel prices and airport maintenance fees.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the way that something works or is managed.

    n.the act or process of functioning or conducting a task; used as a gerund noun.

    Simple

    The smooth operating of the school depends on the staff's hard work.

    In context

    The seamless operating of the logistics network is essential for the timely delivery of perishable goods across the region.

Usage operating officer · operating room · operating system

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated