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Translate files Crank
/kræŋk/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A handle or lever that is turned in order to operate a machine.
He turned the crank to start the engine.
A person with eccentric or strange ideas.
The old man was considered a crank because of his unusual theories.
verb
To turn a crank to operate a machine or mechanism.
She had to crank the window open since the automatic controls were broken.
To make something operate, especially by turning a crank.
He cranked up the music before the party started.
Etymology
Middle English 'cranke', from Old English 'cranc' (a crank or bend).
Common Phrases and Expressions
crank it up
To increase the intensity, particularly of sound.
crank out
To produce something rapidly.
Related Words
engine
A machine designed to convert one form of energy into mechanical energy.
mechanism
A system of parts working together in a machine.
Slang Meanings
A person who has very unusual ideas or beliefs.
Just ignore him; he's a total crank.
To annoy or irritate someone.
Stop cranking me about that mistake!