<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>A device for raising or hauling objects, usually consisting of a horizontal cylinder or barrel turned by a crank, lever, motor, or the like, upon which a cable, rope, or chain winds, the outer end of the cable being attached directly or indirectly to the weight to be raised or the thing to be hauled or pulled; winch.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object): To raise, haul, or move (a load) by means of a windlass.</li></ul>