Windlass \Wind"lass\, n. [OE. windelas, windas, Icel.
vindil[=a]ss, vind[=a]s, fr. vinda to wind + [=a]ss a pole;
cf. Goth. ans a beam. See Wind to turn.]
1. A machine for raising weights, consisting of a horizontal
cylinder or roller moving on its axis, and turned by a
crank, lever, or similar means, so as to wind up a rope or
chain attached to the weight. In vessels the windlass is
often used instead of the capstan for raising the anchor.
It is usually set upon the forecastle, and is worked by
hand or steam.
2. An apparatus resembling a winch or windlass, for bending
the bow of an arblast, or crossbow. [Obs.]
--Shak.
Chinese windlass. See Differential windlass, under
Differential.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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Windlass \Wind"lass\, v. t. & i.
To raise with, or as with, a windlass; to use a windlass.
--The Century.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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