Capstan

['kæpst(ə)n] or ['kæpstən]

Definition

(noun.) a windlass rotated in a horizontal plane around a vertical axis; used on ships for weighing anchor or raising heavy sails.

Checker: Rowena--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A vertical cleated drum or cylinder, revolving on an upright spindle, and surmounted by a drumhead with sockets for bars or levers. It is much used, especially on shipboard, for moving or raising heavy weights or exerting great power by traction upon a rope or cable, passing around the drum. It is operated either by steam power or by a number of men walking around the capstan, each pushing on the end of a lever fixed in its socket.

Editor: Lucia

Definition

n. an upright machine turned by spokes so as to wind upon it a cable which draws something generally the anchor on board ship.

Editor: Priscilla