pulley

noun

pul·​ley ˈpu̇-lē 

plural pulleys

1

: a sheave or small wheel with a grooved rim and with or without the block in which it runs used singly with a rope or chain to change the direction and point of application of a pulling force and in various combinations to increase the applied force especially for lifting weights

2

: a pulley or pulleys with ropes to form a tackle that constitutes one of the simple machines

3

: a wheel used to transmit power by means of a band, belt, cord, rope, or chain passing over its rim

Illustration of pulley

• pulley 2

Examples of pulley in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After popping the platter on the spindle, the silicone belt is easily positioned on the pulley–an operation made even easier by the groove in the side of the platter that prevents the belt from slipping out of position. —Brad Moon, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024

The top pulley of its 122-foot flagpole had come out of its socket. —Marianne Mather, Chicago Tribune, 7 Nov. 2024

The other Paralympics category is compound bow, which features mechanical pulleys, telescopic sights and release aids to assist accuracy. —Claire Osborn, Austin American-Statesman, 29 July 2024

In another scene, Amelia appears to be lifting Jenner into the air (but Jenner, however, is actually being held up by pulleys) in black sequined outfits. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English poley, pully, from Anglo-French pulie, probably ultimately from Greek polos axis, pole — more at pole

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pulley

• idler pulley

Kids Definition

pulley

noun

pul·​ley ˈpu̇l-ē 

plural pulleys

: a small wheel with a grooved rim used with a rope or chain to change the direction of a pulling force and in combination to increase the force applied for lifting

Medical Definition

pulley

noun

pul·​ley ˈpu̇l-ē 

: trochlea