well sweep

noun

1. sweep ¹( def 29 ).

well sweep

noun

1. a device for raising buckets from and lowering them into a well, consisting of a long pivoted pole, the bucket being attached to one end by a long rope

Word History and Origins

Origin of well sweep¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Here and there was an old well sweep, then a long line of stone wall covered with Virginia creeper or clematis.

From Project Gutenberg

I was thirsty, but ahead was the old well sweep, and behind the cool lattice of the dairy window were pans of milk in abundance.

From Project Gutenberg

I was thirsty; but ahead was the old well-sweep, and, behind the cool lattice of the dairy window, were pans of milk in abundance.

From Project Gutenberg

Presently, we heard the squeak of the well-sweep and saw it come round, dip down and rise again.

From Project Gutenberg

They had to carry with them the big bucket fastened to a long pole, for there was no well-sweep.

From Project Gutenberg