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noun Common

Lewis

LOO-ihs
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Lewis (noun) means a metal clamp or pin fitted into a slot cut in a large stone block, used to lift it with a crane. Example: “The masons inserted a lewis into the granite block before hoisting it into place.”

noun
1
A metal clamp or pin fitted into a slot cut in a large stone block, used to lift it with a crane.
"The masons inserted a lewis into the granite block before hoisting it into place."

How to use Lewis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMainly known today as a common first name and surname; also a specialist stonemasonry term for a lifting device.

When to use it

The stone-lifting sense is a technical trade term, rarely used outside masonry and construction.

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Word forms

Plural
Lewises
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The masons inserted a _____ into the granite block before hoisting it into place.

Etymology

As a surname and given name, from Old French Louis, ultimately from the Frankish name meaning roughly "famous warrior."

Origin: Old French

Synonyms

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lewisson

Frequently asked questions

What does “Lewis” mean?
The word “Lewis” means a metal clamp or pin fitted into a slot cut in a large stone block, used to lift it with a crane. In plain terms, mainly known today as a common first name and surname; also a specialist stonemasonry term for a lifting device.
How do you pronounce “Lewis”?
“Lewis” is pronounced LOO-ihs (/ˈluːɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “Lewis” in a sentence?
Here is “Lewis” used in a sentence: “The masons inserted a lewis into the granite block before hoisting it into place.”
What part of speech is “Lewis”?
“Lewis” is a noun.
Where does the word “Lewis” come from?
The word “Lewis” comes from Old French. As a surname and given name, from Old French Louis, ultimately from the Frankish name meaning roughly "famous warrior.".
Is “Lewis” a common word?
“Lewis” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is a lewis used for?
A lewis is a lifting device used in masonry and construction to hoist heavy stone blocks. It fits into a specially cut slot in the top of the stone and grips from the inside, letting a crane or hoist raise and place the block. Lewises have been used since Roman times and remain in traditional stonework.
How does a lewis work?
A slot is cut into the top of the stone, wider at the bottom than at the opening. Metal pieces are slotted in so that, as the lifting chain pulls upward, they are wedged tightly against the sloping sides. The harder the crane lifts, the firmer the grip, allowing the block to be raised safely.
What are the types of lewis?
Common forms include the three-legged or split-pin lewis, made of three metal pieces that spread inside a dovetail slot, and the pin lewis, which uses pins through holes in the stone. There is also the chain lewis and the lewis bolt used for fixing. All grip harder as the load increases.
Why is it called a lewis?
The origin of the name is uncertain. Some link it to the Latin 'levare', meaning to raise or lift, while others suggest it derives from a personal name. The device is very old, known to the Romans, and the term lewis — sometimes lewisson — has been used by stonemasons for centuries.

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