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Winch: meaning, definitions and examples

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winch

 

[wɪnʧ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

lifting equipment

A winch is a mechanical device used to lift or pull heavy loads by winding a cable or rope around a drum. It typically operates using a hand crank or an electric motor, making it essential for tasks in construction, shipping, and off-road activities.

Synonyms

hoist, jack, pulley.

Examples of usage

  • The workers used a winch to lift the heavy steel beams into place.
  • He attached a winch to his truck for towing purposes.
  • The rescue team deployed a winch to pull the stranded vehicle from the ditch.
Context #2 | Verb

to lift

To winch means to use a winch to lift or pull something, often employing the mechanical advantage it provides. This action is common in various industries, including maritime and construction, where heavy objects need to be moved.

Synonyms

hoist, pull, raise.

Examples of usage

  • They winched the boat out of the water.
  • The crew winched the cargo aboard the ship.
  • He carefully winched the load to ensure it was secure.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'winch' comes from the Old English word 'winch', which meant a mechanism for lifting.
  • Related terms can be found in various languages, showing the common need for lifting devices throughout history.

Technology

  • Winches are commonly used in shipping and boating to help load and unload cargo.
  • In construction, winches can be vital for lifting materials to great heights on skyscrapers and bridges.

History

  • Ancient Greeks used simple winches in their construction processes, particularly in the building of monumental structures.
  • During the Middle Ages, winches were essential in castle construction for lifting heavy stones and equipment.

Pop Culture

  • Winches often feature in adventure films where characters lift or rescue something heavy, contributing to dramatic moments.
  • In video games, winches can be part of puzzles that involve moving large objects to progress through a level.

Science

  • The mechanics of a winch can be explained through physics, involving forces, torque, and simple machines that help reduce the effort needed to lift weights.
  • Winches are excellent examples of how mechanical advantage works; they allow people to lift heavy loads with less effort.

Translations

Translations of the word "winch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 guincho

🇮🇳 विंच

🇩🇪 Winde

🇮🇩 winch

🇺🇦 лебідка

🇵🇱 wciągarka

🇯🇵 ウインチ

🇫🇷 treuil

🇪🇸 winche

🇹🇷 vinç

🇰🇷 윈치

🇸🇦 ونش

🇨🇿 kladka

🇸🇰 kladka

🇨🇳 绞盘

🇸🇮 vijak

🇮🇸 vinda

🇰🇿 тартқыш

🇬🇪 ვინჩი

🇦🇿 winch

🇲🇽 winche

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,476, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.