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[1] 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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