ˈpulɪ n. & v. --n. (pl. -eys) 1 a grooved
wheel or set of wheels
for a
cord etc. to pass
over, set in a
block and used for changing
the direction of a force. 2 a wheel or drum fixed on a
shaft and turned by a
belt, used
esp. to
increase speed or
power. --v.tr. (-eys, -eyed) 1
hoist or
work with a pulley. 2
provide with a pulley. [ME f. OF polie prob. ult. f.
med. Gk polidion (unrecorded)
pivot, dimin. of polos POLE(2)]