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crank

Definition

  • noun: a machine part with a handle that can be turned in a circular motion to move something
  • noun: a bent part of an axle or shaft or an arm keyed at right angles to the end of a shaft by which circular motion is imparted to or received from the shaft or by which reciprocating motion is changed into circular motion or vice versa
  • verb: to move (something) by turning a crank
  • verb: to move with a winding course
  • adjective: made or sent as a joke or to cause harm
  • adjective: of, relating to, or being a 'cranky' or eccentric person
  • used especially in the phrase 'quips and cranks'
  • synonyms: caprice, whim, crotchet

Examples

  • Not many musicians are able to 'crank out' an album in just six months.

  • He 'cranked' [='turned'] the steering wheel quickly to the left.

  • He was dismissed as a 'crank' until his article was published.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Since the whole world seems to be awake at , why don't you get your class out here and into formation. Might as well crank it up right now. All right, Master Chief. You guys heard him. Let's rock and roll. - Ready for round two? - Hoo-yah, Master Chief. - Ready for me? (..)
    1997 G.I. Jane