operate

direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.; "She is running a relief operation in the Sudan"

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"

handle and cause to function; "do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol"; "control the lever"

perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage in attack or defense

happen; "What is going on in the minds of the people?"

keep engaged; "engaged the gears"

perform surgery on; "The doctors operated on the patient but failed to save his life"