<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>a rigid bar that pivots about one point and that is used to move an object at a second point by a force applied at a third.</li><li>Compare machine (def 4b).</li><li>a tool, as a pry or a crowbar, for raising, moving, or opening something by leverage: There's a small lever in my toolbox that'll be perfect for prying off these narrow moldings.</li><li>a handle or bar that is manipulated to operate, control, or adjust a machine, mechanism, etc.: Pushing down the lever on the left will automatically open the door.</li><li>a means or agency of persuading or of achieving an end: Saying that the chairman of the board likes the plan is just a lever to get us to support it.</li><li>Horology. the pallet of an escapement.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong> (used with or without object)</p><ul><li>to move with or apply a lever: to lever a rock; to lever mightily and to no avail.</li></ul>