Main Entry:

²crank

Function:

verb

Date:

1592

intransitive verb

1: to move with a winding course : zigzag2 a: to turn a crank b: to get started by or as if by the turning of a crank c: to gain speed, momentum, or intensity —usually used with up<the campaign is cranking up>transitive verb1: to move or operate by or as if by a crank <crank the window down>2 a: to cause to start (as an automobile) b: to rotate the shaft (as a crankshaft) of especially with a starter <crank over an engine> c: to use in trying to start an engine <crank the starter>3 a: to start as if by use of a crank —usually used with up<she cranked up the air conditioner> b: turn up 2 —usually used with up<crank up the volume><crank up the stereo>