a part of a machine that you turn in order to move something else, an unpleasant and easily annoyed person, to start a vehicle's engine by turning a handle

crank call, crank up the volume, crank out

Formal and Informal Expressions of crank

In different contexts, you can replace 'crank' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'handle, lever' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'grouch, curmudgeon' is a commonplace synonym.

crank: Explore its Definition & Usage

crank Definition

1a part of a machine that you turn in order to move something else
2an unpleasant and easily annoyed person
3to start a vehicle's engine by turning a handle

Using crank: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "crank" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He turned the crank to start the engine.
Example
The old man was a real crank, always complaining about something.
Example
She cranked up the car and drove away.

crank Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for crank

Phrases with crank

crank call
a prank phone call made to someone with the intention of annoying or deceiving them
Example
He received a crank call from someone pretending to be his boss.
crank up the volume
to increase the volume of music or sound
Example
Can you crank up the volume on the stereo?
crank out
to produce something quickly and in large quantities, often without much care
Example
The factory cranks out hundreds of cars every day.

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Summary: crank in Brief

The term 'crank' [kræŋk] has multiple meanings. It can refer to a part of a machine that is turned to move something else, as well as an unpleasant and easily annoyed person. Additionally, it can mean to start a vehicle's engine by turning a handle. The phrase 'crank call' refers to a prank phone call, while 'crank up the volume' means to increase the volume of music or sound. 'Crank out' means to produce something quickly and in large quantities.