windlass Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun lifting device consisting of a horizontal cylinder turned by a crank on which a cable or rope winds
    winch.

WordNet

Wind"lass noun
Etymology
Perhaps from wind to turn + lace.
Definitions
  1. A winding and circuitous way; a roundabout course; a shift.
Wind"lass intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To take a roundabout course; to work warily or by indirect means. Obs. Hammond.
Wind"lass noun
Etymology
OE. windelas, windas, Icel. vindilass, vindas, fr. vinda to wind + ass a pole; cf. Goth. ans a beam. See Wind to turn.
Definitions
  1. A machine for raising weights, consisting of a horizontal cylinder or roller moving on its axis, and turned by a crank, lever, or similar means, so as to wind up a rope or chain attached to the weight. In vessels the windlass is often used instead of the capstan for raising the anchor. It is usually set upon the forecastle, and is worked by hand or steam.
  2. An apparatus resembling a winch or windlass, for bending the bow of an arblast, or crossbow. Obs. Shak.
Wind"lass transitive verb & intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To raise with, or as with, a windlass; to use a windlass. The Century.

Webster 1913