[ 'li:və ]
■ noun a rigid bar resting on a pivot, used to move a load with one end when pressure is applied to the other.
↘a projecting arm or handle that is moved to operate a mechanism.
■ verb
1》 lift or move with a ~.
2》 move with a concerted effort: she ~ed herself up.
Origin
ME: from OFr. levier , leveor , from ~ 'to lift'.