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Hoist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hoist

[hɔɪst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

mechanical

To raise or lift something heavy using a system of ropes and pulleys.

Synonyms

elevate, lift, raise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hoist

Used when referring to raising something, often heavy, by mechanical means or with significant effort. Common in industrial or construction settings.

  • They needed a crane to hoist the heavy steel beams into place.
  • The workers hoisted the flag up the pole.
lift

Used in everyday scenarios for raising or moving something to a higher position, usually involving manual effort.

  • Can you help me lift this box?
  • She lifted the child onto her shoulders.
elevate

Typically used when referring to raising something to a higher position or level in a more formal or abstract sense. It can be used for physical objects or metaphorically for status or mood.

  • They decided to elevate the discussion to the board of directors.
  • The doctor recommended using pillows to elevate her legs.
raise

Versatile word used for increasing the level, amount, or position of something, applicable to both concrete and abstract concepts.

  • They plan to raise the prices next month.
  • She raised her hand to ask a question.

Examples of usage

  • The workers hoisted the equipment to the top floor of the building.
  • She hoisted the sail on the boat to catch the wind.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To raise or lift something, especially a flag or sail, into position.

Synonyms

elevate, lift, raise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hoist

Use 'hoist' when referring to lifting something heavy or using a mechanical device, like in construction or sailing.

  • The workers hoisted the steel beam into place.
  • They hoisted the sails to catch the wind.
raise

Use 'raise' when bringing something up, whether it be a child, a question, or a physical object. It's often used in more abstract or formal situations.

  • She raised her hand to answer the question.
  • They plan to raise funds for the project.
elevate

Use 'elevate' in more formal or medical contexts, often implying raising to a higher level, status, or moral standing.

  • The goal is to elevate the company's reputation.
  • After the injury, they advised her to elevate her leg.
lift

Use 'lift' for general purposes when raising something from a lower position to a higher one, often involving physical effort.

  • Can you lift that box for me?
  • He lifted the child onto his shoulders.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers hoisted the national flag during the ceremony.
  • He hoisted a white flag as a sign of surrender.
Context #3 | Noun

nautical

A system of ropes and pulleys used for lifting or lowering sails or heavy objects on a ship.

Synonyms

lifting gear, pulley system.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hoist

Used when referring to lifting or raising something heavy, often in construction, shipping, or rescue operations.

  • The workers used a hoist to lift the steel beams to the top of the building
  • The flag was hoisted up the pole for the ceremony
lifting gear

Specifically refers to mechanical equipment designed for lifting heavy objects, often in industrial or warehouse settings.

  • Make sure the lifting gear is inspected regularly to ensure safety
  • The crew used the lifting gear to move the heavy machinery into place
pulley system

Refers to a system involving wheels and ropes or chains used for lifting or moving heavy objects. Commonly used in mechanical engineering, physics, and even everyday scenarios like raising a window curtain.

  • They set up a pulley system to hoist the piano to the second floor
  • The old well used a simple pulley system to draw water

Examples of usage

  • The sailors used the hoist to raise the anchor from the seabed.
  • The ship's hoist was essential for moving cargo.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, hoisting is related to the concept of work, where lifting a weight requires energy to be expended.
  • The pulley system is a commonly used mechanical advantage to make hoisting easier, reducing the amount of force needed to lift objects.
  • Heavy objects lifted with cranes demonstrate the principles of leverage and force, showcasing how hoisting plays a crucial role in construction.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, scenes involving hoists often depict dramatic moments, like raising a character to safety or lowering them into danger.
  • Songs sometimes mention hoisting to symbolize uplifting spirits or overcoming struggles, resonating with themes of resilience.
  • In sports, teams often hoist trophies to celebrate their victories, emphasizing the connection between success and lifting high.

Literature

  • In classic literature, the act of hoisting represents triumph or elevation, often used as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles.
  • Famous narratives have characters hoisting flags or banners, symbolizing victory or allegiance to a cause.
  • Contemporary poetry sometimes employs 'hoist' to convey emotional weight, illustrating how feelings can be burdening yet need to be elevated.

History

  • Historically, hoisting was crucial in shipbuilding, allowing workers to elevate masts and rigging during construction.
  • In medieval times, hoists played a vital role in castle construction for lifting stone blocks and other heavy materials.
  • The invention of mechanical hoists revolutionized industries like mining and construction, increasing efficiency in transporting heavy loads.

Origin of 'hoist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hoist' comes from the Old French 'hoister', meaning to raise or lift.
  • Roots can be traced back to Latin 'surgere', which means to rise or get up.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 15th century, primarily in nautical contexts.

The word 'hoist' originated from Middle English 'hoisten', meaning to raise or lift. It has roots in Old French and Germanic languages. The concept of hoisting heavy objects using ropes and pulleys has been used for centuries in various industries, especially in sailing and construction. The evolution of hoist systems has greatly improved efficiency in lifting heavy loads.

See also: hoisting.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,526, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.