n.
Pronunciation: ' winch
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English winche roller, reel, from Old English wince; akin to Old English wincian to wink
Date: before 12th century
1 : any of various machines or instruments for hauling or pulling especially : a powerful machine with one or more drums on which to coil a rope, cable, or chain for hauling or hoisting : WINDLASS
2 : a crank with a handle for giving motion to a machine (as a grindstone)
winch[1]