Dictionary

1hoist

verb \ˈhist, chiefly dialect ˈhīst\

: to raise (something) especially by using ropes or machinery

basketball : to take (a shot)

Full Definition of HOIST

transitive verb
1
:  lift, raise; especially :  to raise into position by or as if by means of tackle
2
:  drink 1 <hoist a few beers>
intransitive verb
:  to become hoisted :  rise
hoist·er noun
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Origin of HOIST

alteration of hoise
First Known Use: 15th century

Related to HOIST

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>.

Rhymes with HOIST

2hoist

noun

: a machine used for lifting heavy loads

Full Definition of HOIST

1
:  an act of hoisting :  lift
2
:  an apparatus for hoisting
3
:  the height of a flag when viewed flying

First Known Use of HOIST

1654

Other Building Terms

batten, cistern, hearth, lath, transom, wainscot
HOIST Defined for Kids

1hoist

verb \ˈhist\
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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