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crank

[krangk] / kræŋk /
NOUN
a device for revolving a shaft
Synonyms


NOUN
a person with an obsession
Synonyms
NOUN
an ill-natured person
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There are limits on how much power each company can draw from the public power grid so fast-growing industries can’t just crank up their consumption whenever they want.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

That’s largely because of how high Gabriela was able to crank up the heat from the jump Sunday.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

If electricity fails, the bunker's ventilation system can be operated manually using a hand crank — much like in vintage cars.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

“If we’re going to just crank crap out, let’s shut the doors,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 7, 2026

I can always tell when it’s time to crank up the charisma.

From "Liar, Liar" by Gary Paulsen




Vocabulary lists containing crank


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