The term 'direct or control' can be summarized by three crossword solutions: OPERATE (7 letters), STEER (5 letters), and REFER (5 letters). Operating is the act of running or controlling a machine, system, or process. Steering is the act of guiding or directing a vehicle or vessel. Referring is the act of sending someone to a source for help or information. All three words are related to the idea of directing or controlling something.