crank
UK: kræŋk | US: kræŋk
n. 1. A mechanical device with a handle that transmits motion, often used to start engines or machinery.
n. 2. (Informal) An eccentric or irritable person.
vt. 1. To turn or operate a crank.
adj. (Slang) Unpredictable or unconventional in behavior.
The word "crank" traces back to Old English cranc, meaning "bent" or "twisted," likely imitative of the creaking sound of a turning handle. By the 16th century, it evolved to describe mechanical handles due to their bent shape. The informal sense of "eccentric person" (early 19th century) metaphorically links erratic behavior to the irregular motion of a crank.
He used a crank to start the vintage car engine.
Don’t mind him—he’s just a harmless old crank.
She cranked the lever to lower the bridge.
His crank ideas often surprised his colleagues.
The machine’s crank snapped from overuse.