First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1hoist
verb \ˈhȯist, chiefly dialect ˈhīst\
: to raise (something) especially by using ropes or machinery
basketball : to take (a shot)
Full Definition of HOIST
transitive verb
2
: drink 1 <hoist a few beers>
intransitive verb
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Origin of HOIST
alteration of hoise
Synonym Discussion of HOIST
lift, raise, rear, elevate, hoist, heave, boost mean to move from a lower to a higher place or position. lift usually implies exerting effort to overcome resistance of weight <lift the chair while I vacuum>. raise carries a stronger implication of bringing up to the vertical or to a high position <scouts raising a flagpole>. rear may add an element of suddenness to raise <suddenly reared itself up on its hind legs>. elevate may replace lift or raise especially when exalting or enhancing is implied <elevated the taste of the public>. hoist implies lifting something heavy especially by mechanical means <hoisted the cargo on board>. heave implies lifting and throwing with great effort or strain <heaved the heavy crate inside>. boost suggests assisting to climb or advance by a push <boosted his brother over the fence>.
2hoist
noun
: a machine used for lifting heavy loads
Full Definition of HOIST
2
: an apparatus for hoisting
3
: the height of a flag when viewed flying
See hoist defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of HOIST
1654
HOIST Defined for Kids
1hoist
verb \ˈhȯist\
hoist·edhoist·ing
Definition of HOIST for Kids
: to lift up especially with a pulley
2hoist
noun
Definition of HOIST for Kids
: a device used for lifting heavy loads
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