hoist
7 synonyms and 1 antonym for hoist, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To raise or lift something up, often using ropes, pulleys, or machinery.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
haul up
Antonyms
How to use hoist
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
hoist a flag
hoist the sail
hoist yourself up
Etymology
An alteration of the older word "hoise," itself from Middle Dutch hisen ("to hoist") — related to modern Dutch hijsen and German hissen.
Full origin of hoist →Frequently asked questions
What does “hoist” mean?
The word “hoist” means to raise or lift something up, often using ropes, pulleys, or machinery. In plain terms, to lift something up, often something heavy, usually with equipment rather than bare hands.
How do you pronounce “hoist”?
“Hoist” is pronounced hoyst (/hɔɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “hoist” in a sentence?
Here is “hoist” used in a sentence: “The crew hoisted the sail as soon as the wind picked up.”
What part of speech is “hoist”?
Depending on how it is used, “hoist” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “hoist” come from?
The word “hoist” comes from German. An alteration of the older word "hoise," itself from Middle Dutch hisen ("to hoist") — related to modern Dutch hijsen and German hissen.
Is “hoist” a common word?
“Hoist” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
How many meanings does “hoist” have?
“Hoist” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to raise or lift something up, often using ropes, pulleys, or machinery.
