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Crank: meaning, definitions and examples

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crank

 

[ kræŋk ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

mechanical device

A crank is a device for converting circular motion into reciprocating motion or vice versa.

Synonyms

arm, handle, lever

Examples of usage

  • The old-fashioned well used a crank to draw up water.
  • The bicycle's pedals are connected to a crankshaft to propel the bike forward.
Context #2 | Noun

person's behavior

A crank is a person who holds strong and stubborn opinions or who is eccentric in behavior.

Synonyms

eccentric, oddball, quirky

Examples of usage

  • My neighbor is a crank who believes in conspiracy theories.
  • Don't mind him, he's just being a crank about the new policy.
Context #3 | Verb

start or operate a machine

To crank something means to start or operate a machine, especially by turning a handle.

Synonyms

operate, start, turn

Examples of usage

  • She cranked the engine of the car to get it started.
  • He cranked the old gramophone and the music started playing.

Translations

Translations of the word "crank" in other languages:

🇵🇹 manivela

🇮🇳 हथकंडा

🇩🇪 Kurbel

🇮🇩 engkol

🇺🇦 кривошип

🇵🇱 korba

🇯🇵 クランク

🇫🇷 manivelle

🇪🇸 manivela

🇹🇷 krank

🇰🇷 크랭크

🇸🇦 ذراع التدوير

🇨🇿 kliková hřídel

🇸🇰 kľuka

🇨🇳 曲柄 (qū bǐng)

🇸🇮 ročica

🇮🇸 veiviður

🇰🇿 иіндімелі білік

🇬🇪 კრანკი

🇦🇿 krank

🇲🇽 manivela

Etymology

The word 'crank' has a long history, originating from the Old English 'cranc', which means 'bend' or 'bow'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a mechanical device for converting motion. The usage of 'crank' to describe a person with eccentric behavior came about in the 19th century, likely due to the idea of someone being 'off-kilter' like a misaligned crank. The verb form of 'crank' to mean starting a machine emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of mechanical devices.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,891 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.