skyhook

/ˈskaɪˌhʊk/
noun
  1. A hypothetical or imaginary hook in the sky used to support something from above, often used in philosophy or as a metaphor for an unsupported or miraculous solution.
    • In the debate, he accused his opponent of using a skyhook argument.
    • The theory relied on a skyhook to explain how the system stayed up.
    • Without a skyhook, the plan had no real foundation.
  2. A device used in basketball for a high, arcing shot, especially a hook shot that goes high over the defender.
    • He scored with a perfect skyhook from the free-throw line.
    • She practiced her skyhook every day after school.
    • The center's skyhook was nearly impossible to block.
  3. A type of crane or lifting device that hangs from above, such as a helicopter hook.
    • The construction crew operated the skyhook carefully.
    • A skyhook attached to the helicopter carried the supplies.
    • The rescue team used a skyhook to lift the hiker off the cliff.
What does "skyhook" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean