crank (B1)

verb, noun

Pronunciation: /kræŋk/

Definition

To turn a handle or crank in order to start an engine or machine, or to operate something.

Examples

• You need to crank the lawnmower before it will start.

• She cranked the window open to let in some fresh air.

• He cranked the music up louder.

How to Use crank

crank up (phrasal verb)

To increase the volume of music or sound. — "Can you crank up the radio a bit?"

crank out (phrasal verb)

To produce something quickly and in large quantities, often of low quality. — "The factory can crank out hundreds of widgets a day."

crank handle (collocation)

A handle used for turning or operating a mechanism. — "He found the crank handle for the old well."

Synonyms of crank

Words with a similar meaning to crank:

• turn
• operate
• wind
• activate

Antonyms of crank

Words with the opposite meaning to crank:

• stop
• deactivate

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary