differential windlass

noun

: a windlass that has a barrel with two parts of different diameters, a hoisting rope that winds upon one part as it unwinds from the other, and a pulley that sustains the weight to be lifted hanging in the bight of the hoisting rope

called also Chinese windlass

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near differential windlass

Cite this Entry

“Differential windlass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/differential%20windlass. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!