First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
1windlass
noun wind·lass \ˈwin(d)-ləs\
Definition of WINDLASS
: any of various machines for hoisting or hauling: as a : a horizontal barrel supported on vertical posts and turned by a crank so that the hoisting rope is wound around the barrel b : a steam or electric winch with horizontal or vertical shaft and two drums used to raise a ship's anchor
See windlass defined for English-language learners
See windlass defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of WINDLASS
Middle English wyneles, wyndlas, alteration of wyndase, from Old French guindas, windas, from Old Norse vindāss, from vinda to wind (akin to Old High German wintan to wind) + āss pole; akin to Gothic ans beam
2windlass
verb
Definition of WINDLASS
transitive verb
: to hoist or haul with a windlass
First Known Use of WINDLASS
1834
Learn More About WINDLASS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: windlasserPrevious Word in the Dictionary: windlaceAll Words Near: windlass
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up windlass? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).