Windlass

Part of speech: noun (n.)

A winding and circuitous way; a roundabout course; a shift.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

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.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To take a roundabout course; to work warily or by indirect means. [Obs.] Hammond.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To raise with, or as with, a windlass; to use a windlass. The Century.