noun
windlass
Windlass (noun) means a machine that lifts heavy weights by winding a rope or cable around a turning cylinder.
noun
1
A machine that lifts heavy weights by winding a rope or cable around a turning cylinder.
2
A twisting, indirect route; a roundabout way of getting somewhere.
3
A winch-like device used to draw back the bow of a crossbow.
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Etymology
Comes from Middle English wyndlas, wyndelas, wyndlasse, wyndelasse, probably an altered form (influenced by Middle English windel) of Middle English windas, wyndas, wyndace, itself from Anglo-Norman windase, windeis and Old Northern French windas (compare Old French guindas, Medieval Latin windasius, windasa), from Old Norse vindáss (“windlass”, literally “winding-pole”), formed from vinda (“to wind”) and áss (“pole”). Compare Icelandic vindilass.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of windlass?
"windlass" (noun) means a machine that lifts heavy weights by winding a rope or cable around a turning cylinder.
What is another word for windlass?
Other words for "windlass" include winch.
What are the different meanings of windlass?
"windlass" has 3 main meanings: 1. A machine that lifts heavy weights by winding a rope or cable around a turning cylinder; 2. A twisting, indirect route; a roundabout way of getting somewhere; 3. A winch-like device used to draw back the bow of a crossbow.
