Hoist

Part of speech: verb, noun

Pronunciation: /hɔɪst/

Definitions

1. To elevate or raise an object, often utilizing a mechanism or apparatus for assistance
2. To lift something or someone, frequently requiring a tool for the act
3. To raise or lift something, especially with the help of mechanical equipment or rigging

Etymology: Sailors gave English "hoist" its shape, though the word probably began as something a little different. Middle Dutch "hisen" meant "to hoist," and English borrowed the verb from that Germanic source, with cousins in modern Dutch "hijsen" and German "hissen." The Romance languages picked up the same root, which is why French "hisser," Spanish "izar," and Italian "issare" all carry a similar sound for the same action of raising something by rope or tackle. The English form we use today is an alteration of an older verb, "hoise." Its final "t" appears to have been added by analogy with the past tense forms, which were pronounced with a "t" sound, so the spelling and sound shifted to match. Because of that alteration, the familiar "hoist" is a slightly later shape of the same borrowed verb, not a separate word.

Synonyms: lift, raise, elevate, heave, uplift

Antonyms: lower, drop, decrease, diminish, suspend