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¹lever

noun le·ver \ˈle-vər, ˈlē-\

: a strong bar that is used to lift and move something heavy

: a bar or rod that is used to operate or adjust something on a machine, vehicle, device, etc.

: something used to achieve a desired result

Full Definition of LEVER

a : a bar used for prying or dislodging something

b : an inducing or compelling force : tool <use food as a political lever — Time>

a : a rigid piece that transmits and modifies force or motion when forces are applied at two points and it turns about a third; specifically : a rigid bar used to exert a pressure or sustain a weight at one point of its length by the application of a force at a second and turning at a third on a fulcrum

b : a projecting piece by which a mechanism is operated or adjusted

See lever defined for English-language learners

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Illustration of LEVER

Origin of LEVER

Middle English, from Anglo-French levier, lever, from lever to raise, from Latin levare, from levis light in weight — more at light

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Mechanical Engineering Terms

centrifuge, differential, flange, lathe, linchpin, pinion, plenum, ratchet, traction

Rhymes with LEVER

clever, ever, never, sever

²lever

verb

: to lift or move (something) with a lever

le·veredle·ver·ing \ˈle-və-riŋ, ˈlē-; ˈlev-riŋ, ˈlēv-\

Full Definition of LEVER

transitive verb

: to pry, raise, or move with or as if with a lever

: to operate (a device) in the manner of a lever

See lever defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of LEVER

1876

Related to LEVER

Synonyms: jimmy, ¹pry, prize

LEVER Defined for Kids

¹lever

noun le·ver \ˈle-vər, ˈlē-\

Definition of LEVER for Kids

: a bar used to pry or move something

: a stiff bar for lifting a weight at one point of its length by pressing or pulling at a second point while the bar turns on a support

: a bar or rod used to run or adjust something <a gearshift lever>

Word Root of LEVER

The Latin word levis, meaning “lightweight,” gives us the root lev. Words from the Latin levis have something to do with being light in weight. To levitate is to be so light as to rise up into the air. To elevate is to lift something up to a higher level as if it is lightweight. A lever is a bar used to help lift something up by making it feel lighter than it is.