winch (1), winche, wynche

[A. S. wince; cf. M. H. Ger. wenke a bending or crooking.] 1. The crank, projecting handle, or lever by which the axis of a revolving machine is turned, as in the windla , grindstone, . 2. A reel on a fishing-rod. 3. The most simple form of hoisting-machine, consisting of a roller on which the rope is wound, the turning-power being a crank. It has many modifications in respect of its adaptation to cranes and derricks. Increased power is obtained by placing a large spur-wheel on the roller-shaft and turning it by a pinion on the crank-shaft. When on a movable frame, with drum and gearing, and adapted for hauling in the fall of the hoisting tackle of derricks, ., it is called a crab (q. v.).