capstan bar

American  

noun

1. a long lever for turning a capstan by hand.

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capstan bar British  

noun

1. a lever, often wooden, for turning a capstan

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Etymology

Origin of capstan bar

First recorded in 1620–30

Example Sentences

A capstan bar, which Morton and his companions found outside, enabled them to accomplish their object.

From Ronald Morton, or the Fire Ships A Story of the Last Naval War by Hoggans, T.

Seth looked on at the fun, chewing the end of a capstan bar, and Oscar kept on rolling Spunkie in the scuppers, but when McBain joined the group order was somewhat restored.

From The Cruise of the Snowbird A Story of Arctic Adventure by Stables, Gordon

And thereupon Hardenberg swore a great oath and threw down the capstan bar he held in his hand.

From A Deal in Wheat and Other Stories of the New and Old West by Norris, Frank

Desperately I seized a capstan bar and knocked the wedges and battens off a hatch cover.

From Boy Scouts in the North Sea The Mystery of a Sub by Ralphson, G. Harvey (George Harvey)

He must live so far fr'm th' sea that he don't know a capstan bar fr'm a sheet anchor.

From Mr. Dooley: In the Hearts of His Countrymen by Dunne, Finley Peter