from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Winch \Winch\, n. [OE. winche, AS. wince a winch, a reel to wind
thread upon. Cf. {Wink}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. A crank with a handle, for giving motion to a machine, a
grindstone, etc.
[1913 Webster]
2. An instrument with which to turn or strain something
forcibly.
[1913 Webster]
3. An axle or drum turned by a crank with a handle, or by
power, for raising weights, as from the hold of a ship,
from mines, etc.; a windlass.
[1913 Webster]
4. A wince.
[1913 Webster]
[1913 Webster]