steam winch

A worker operates a steam winch to lift heavy cargo onto the dock.

Definition

Noun: A "steam winch" is a machine used for hoisting or pulling heavy loads, powered by steam. It consists of a drum around which a cable or chain is wound, and it operates using the energy generated by steam pressure.

Usage Examples

• (A steam-powered machine for hoisting cargo.)
• (A device for pulling heavy objects.)

Advanced Usage

• "Steam winch" can be used in historical or industrial contexts to describe early machinery before the widespread use of electric or hydraulic winches.
  • The construction of the bridge relied on several steam winches to position the massive stone blocks. (Historical industrial equipment.)

Variants and Related Words

• Winch (n): a general term for a machine that winds a rope or cable to lift or pull something, regardless of power source.

  • The rescue team used a hand-operated winch to pull the car from the ditch. (A manual or mechanical lifting device.)

• Steam-powered (adj): describing any device that uses steam as its energy source.

  • Steam-powered engines revolutionized transportation in the 19th century. (Operated by steam.)

Synonyms

• Hoist: a device for lifting heavy objects.
• Crane: a tall machine used for moving heavy objects, often with a boom and cables.

Related Idioms

Phrasal Verbs