(lev′ər, lē′vər) noun
1. A mechanical device, consisting of a rigid structure, often a straight bar, turning freely on a fixed point or fulcrum, and serving to impart pressure or motion from a source of power to a resistance; one of the six so–called mechanical powers.
2. Any one of various tools on the principle defined above, as a starting bar for a marine engine.
3. Any means of exerting effective power.
—v.t. & v.i. To move with or use a lever. [<OF leveour, lit., a lifter <lever raise <L levare]
TWO PRINCIPAL TYPES OF LEVERS
Above: First class.
Below: Second class.

(lē′vər), Charles James,
1806–72, Irish novelist.