To make something work or function, or to run a business, machine, or organization.
From Latin 'operari' meaning 'to work,' derived from 'opus' (work or labor). The word moved through Old French and entered English as a way to describe putting something into action or managing it.
The same Latin root 'opus' gave us 'opera' (a work of art) and 'operation' (a surgical work on your body)—all sharing the idea that 'opus' means work! Interestingly, Roman soldiers used 'operari' to describe their military duties, so every job is technically 'work' in Latin.
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