Definition of: windlass

(wind′ləs) noun
Any of several devices for hauling or lifting, especially that form familiar in well curbs, consisting of a drum or barrel on which the hoisting rope winds, and turned by means of cranking.
—Chinese or differential windlass A horizontal wheel and axle having two drums of different diameters on the same axis, one of which pays out as the other winds up, the power being increased in inverse proportion to the difference between the diameters.
—v.t. & v.i. To raise or haul with a windlass. [Alter. of ME windas <ON vindass <vinda wind + ass a beam; infl. in form by WINDLE²]
DIFFERENTIAL WINDLASS