n. & v.
--n.
1. a bar resting on a pivot, used to help lift a heavy or firmly fixed object.
2 Mech. a simple machine consisting of a rigid bar pivoted about a fulcrum (fixed point) which can be acted upon by a force (effort) in order to move a load.
3 a projecting handle moved to operate a mechanism.
4 a means of exerting moral pressure.
--v.
1. intr. use a lever.
2 tr. (often foll. by away, out, up, etc.) lift, move, or act on with a lever.
Phrases and idioms:
lever escapement a mechanism connecting the escape wheel and the balance wheel using two levers. lever watch a watch with a lever escapement.
Etymology: ME f. OF levier, leveor f. lever raise: see LEVY