lever

Pronunciation: /ˈlɛv.ɚ/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a rigid bar pivoted about a fulcrum
  2. noun a simple machine that gives a mechanical advantage when given a fulcrum
  3. noun a flat metal tumbler in a lever lock

Etymology

From Middle English lever, levore, levour, from Old French leveor, leveur (“a lifter, lever (also Old French and French levier)”), from Latin levātor (“a lifter”), from levō (“to raise”). Doublet of levator.

In classic literature

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
bar
Narrower (hyponyms)
compound lever, hand throttle, tire iron, gun trigger, peavey, ripping bar

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