crank

/kræŋk/
verb
  1. To start or operate something by turning a handle or crank.
    • She cranked the window open to let in fresh air.
    • He cranked the engine until it finally started.
    • The mechanic cranked the motor to test it.
  2. To increase the intensity, volume, or speed of something (often followed by 'up').
    • He cranked the heat to warm up the room quickly.
    • The factory is cranking up production for the holiday season.
    • Crank up the music; I love this song!
noun
  1. A device that converts back-and-forth motion into circular motion, or vice versa, often a handle attached to a shaft.
    • The bicycle pedal is attached to a crank that turns the chain.
    • She used a crank to lower the bucket into the well.
    • He turned the crank to start the old car's engine.
  2. A person who is easily irritated or has strange ideas.
    • My neighbor is a crank who complains about everything.
    • The old man was known as a crank because of his odd habits.
    • Don't listen to that crank; his theories have no scientific basis.
Synonyms
adjective
  1. Easily annoyed or in a bad mood; irritable.
    • He's always a little crank in the morning before his coffee.
    • The baby was crank and wouldn't stop crying.
    • She gets crank when she hasn't had enough sleep.
Antonyms
What does "crank" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean