See Also: crank(4)(dictionary)
crank(5)(dictionary)
crank(7)(dictionary)
crank(3)(dictionary)
crank(2)(dictionary)
crank(1)(dictionary)
crank(8)(dictionary)
crank(9)(dictionary)
crank(encyclopedia)
crank(6)(dictionary)

crank(5) (iou)



crank noun1.

A part of an axle or shaft bent at right angles, used to communicate motion or for converting reciprocal into circular motion, or vice versa. OE.
An elbow-shaped connection in bell-hanging. M18.
An elbow-shaped support or bracket. M18.
Hist. A revolving disc to which a regulated pressure could be applied, turned by prisoners as a punishment. M19.
Comb.: crank-axle (a) the driving-axle of an engine or machine; (b) a carriage axle with the ends bent twice at a right angle to lower the body while permitting the use of large wheels; crankcase the case or covering in which a crankshaft is enclosed; crankpin a pin by which a connecting-rod is attached to a crank; crankshaft a shaft driven by a crank; crank-wheel a wheel acting as a crank; esp. one having near its circumference a pin to which the end of a connecting-rod is attached as to a crankpin.