lever

¹le·ver

noun \ˈle-vər, ˈlē-\

Definition of LEVER

1

a : a bar used for prying or dislodging something b : an inducing or compelling force : tool <use food as a political lever — Time>

2

a : a rigid piece that transmits and modifies force or motion when forces are applied at two points and it turns about a third; specifically : a rigid bar used to exert a pressure or sustain a weight at one point of its length by the application of a force at a second and turning at a third on a fulcrum b : a projecting piece by which a mechanism is operated or adjusted

Examples of LEVER

1. They used their money as a lever to gain political power.

Illustration of LEVER

Origin of LEVER

Middle English, from Anglo-French levier, lever, from lever to raise, from Latin levare, from levis light in weight — more at light

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Mechanical Engineering Terms

centrifuge, differential, flange, lathe, linchpin, pinion, plenum, ratchet, traction

Rhymes with LEVER

clever, ever, never, sever