Crank: meaning, definitions and examples

When used in a second reference, it can also denote a handle connected to a rotating shaft to move or operate machinery.

• The fisherman used the crank on his reel to pull in the fish.
• Turn the crank clockwise to open the gate.

Best used to describe the part of an object that is designed to be held or operated by hand. It can also imply managing a situation or task.

• She grabbed the handle and opened the door.
• Can you handle the customer complaints today?

Often used to describe a rigid bar that pivots around a fixed point to move or lift something. It can also be used metaphorically to describe using something to exert influence or achieve a result.

• He pulled the lever to operate the machine.
• They used political connections as a lever to gain support for their project.

Typically used to refer to the upper limb of the human body. In mechanical terms, it can also describe a part of a machine that extends or pivots to perform a task.

• She lifted her arm to wave goodbye.
• The robotic arm carefully placed the item on the conveyor belt.

Also used to describe a device for starting an engine or a manual tool that you turn to make something operate.

• He used a hand crank to start the old tractor

Ideal for describing someone whose behavior or style is unconventional and distinctive, but without a strong negative judgment. It often implies a certain charm or endearing quality.

• Her eccentric way of dressing made her stand out at every social event

Usually describes someone who behaves in a very strange or unusual way. This term is often informal and can be used both affectionately and critically, depending on the tone.

• He's a bit of an oddball, always collecting the strangest souvenirs from his travels

Best used to describe something or someone that is charmingly unusual or unexpectedly different in a pleasant way. It has a positive connotation.

• Her quirky sense of humor made her very popular among her friends

Colloquially, this can also refer to someone who is eccentric or acts in a strange manner, often negatively.

• The old man down the street is considered a crank because of his unusual habits.
• Don't mind her, she's just a bit of a crank.

This is a general term used for initiating the function or action of any device, machine, process, or even an event.

• Press this button to start the computer.
• The race will start at 9 AM sharp.

This is used when referring to controlling or running a piece of machinery or equipment in a formal or professional setting.

• Trained personnel should operate the heavy machinery.
• She learned how to operate the new software efficiently.

Use this when you rotate a mechanism or object, often in relation to knobs, dials, or wheels.

• Turn the key to unlock the door.
• He had to turn the knob several times to get the water running.