Main Entry: ²crank

Function: verb

Date: 1592

intransitive verb

1 : to move with a winding course : zigzag
2 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 verb 1 : 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>