operance (operans)

[ The elements, That know not what or why, yet do effect Rare i ues by their operance . Where causes operate freely. Shak., T. and C., v. 3. 110. Watts . The affair operated as the signal for insurrection. Pre scott, Ferd. and Isa., ii. 6 [The application of this word to the working of machinery, in such phrases as "the engine began to operate," is regarded as inelegant, and such a use of it is rare in England.] 4. To produce the desired or appropriate effect; act effectively; be effectual in producing the result intended: as, the medicine operated well.-5. To carry on speculative transactions; buy and sell speculatively: with in: as, to op erate in stocks; to operate in oil. [Commercial cant.]=Syn. 3 and 4. Act, Work, etc. See act. II. trans. 1. To effect; produce by action or the exertion of force or energy; accomplish as an agent; cause. It [Goethe's "Helena"] operates a wonderful relief to the mind from the routine of customary images. Emerson , History. 2. To direct or superintend the working of; cause to move or perform the acts desired; work: as, to operate a machine. operatic (op-e-rat'ik), a. [ operatically (op-e-rat'i-kal-i), adv. In an operatic manner; as regards the opera.