lever

Meanings

1. 1
   noun (except in generalized senses below) A crowbar.
2. 2
   noun A rigid piece which is capable of turning about one point, or axis (the fulcrum), and in which are two or more other points where forces are applied; — used for transmitting and modifying force and motion.
3. 3
   noun A small such piece to trigger or control a mechanical device (like a button).
4. 4
   noun A bar, as a capstan bar, applied to a rotatory piece to turn it.
5. 5
   noun An arm on a rock shaft, to give motion to the shaft or to obtain motion from it.
6. 6
   verb To move with a lever.
7. 7
   verb To use, operate or move (something) like a lever (physically).
8. 8
   verb To use (something) like a lever (in an abstract sense).
9. 9
   verb To increase the share of debt in the capitalization of a business.