/wind"leuhs/ , n.
1. a device for raising or hauling objects, usually consisting of a horizontal cylinder or barrel turned by a crank, lever, motor, or the like, upon which a cable, rope, or chain winds, the outer end of the cable being attached directly or indirectly to the weight to be raised or the thing to be hauled or pulled; winch.
v.t.
2. to raise, haul, or move (a load) by means of a windlass.
[ 1350-1400; ME wind ( e ) las vindass, equiv. to vinda to WIND 2 + ass beam ]