Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanical device around which something can be wound: A "winder" is a tool or apparatus designed to have material like thread, wire, or film wrapped around it.
   • A mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock): A "winder" is a key or mechanism used to tighten the mainspring of a clock, watch, or similar mechanical device.
   • A worker who winds (e.g., a winch or clock or other mechanism): A "winder" is a person whose job involves operating a winding mechanism, such as in a factory or for maintaining clocks.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The old film projector had a large winder for the reel. (The mechanical device for the film.)
  • I need to find the winder for my grandfather clock; it's stopped. (The key for the clock mechanism.)
  • In the textile mill, her job as a winder was to operate the spooling machines. (The worker operating the machinery.)

Advanced Usage

• "Key-winder": A specific type of winder shaped like a key, used for clocks and toys.
  • The antique music box is a key-winder.
• "Stair winder": In architecture, a wedge-shaped step in a turning staircase. (Note: This is a compound noun where "winder" is part of a fixed term).
  • The spiral staircase was tricky because of the narrow winders.

Variants and Related Words

• Wind (verb): To twist or coil something around itself or another object.
• Rewind (verb): To wind something back to its starting position.
• Winding (noun/adjective): The act of coiling or a curved path.

Synonyms

• Spool: A cylinder on which thread, film, or tape is wound.
• Key (for clocks/watches): A device for winding a spring-driven mechanism.
• Operator: A person who operates machinery.

Related Phrases

• "To wind up" (phrasal verb): To tighten the spring of a mechanism; to bring something to an end.
  • He had to wind up the toy car before it would run.
  • It's time to wind up the meeting. (Note: This phrasal verb uses the base verb "wind," not the noun "winder").

Notes on Meaning

The primary meanings of "winder" are all connected to the action of winding (turning or coiling). The meaning is heavily dependent on context: it can be the tool, the part of a machine, or the person doing the job. The architectural term "stair winder" is a specialized, compound usage.

Noun

1. mechanical device around which something can be wound
2. mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)
3. a worker who winds (e.g., a winch or clock or other mechanism)