CAPSTAN Meaning and
Definition
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Capstan:
noun
1. A mechanical device consisting of a vertical drum or cylinder mounted horizontally on a spindle, used to apply or maintain tension, as in winding rope or cable. It is typically shaped like a large, upright spool and features radial arms or rollers around its circumference to grip and hold the rope or cable in place.
2. A type of winch or hoisting machine operated by a vertical or horizontal spindle, commonly used on ships and aircraft carriers to lift or lower heavy objects, such as anchors, sails, or aircraft.
3. In naval engineering, a capstan refers to a specific type of vertical or horizontal drum mechanism used aboard ships to facilitate the hauling and securing of heavy ropes or cables. It is often powered manually by sailors or powered by an engine to provide mechanical advantage.
4. A capstan can also refer to the rotating shaft or device found on audio or video cassette players, which functions to move the tape through the player, enabling playback or recording.
The term "capstan" is derived from the French word "cabestan", which originated from the Spanish "cabesta" meaning a wooden block for securing ropes or cables. Capstans are widely used in various industries and applications that require the manipulation, tensioning, or hoisting of ropes, cables, or tapes in a controlled manner.
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In a ship, a movable upright block of timber round which a rope or chain is made to coil when raising an anchor or other heavy weight.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CAPSTAN
Etymology of CAPSTAN
The word "capstan" comes from the Late Latin term "capstanus" or "capsa", which means "chest" or "box". This Latin word was derived from the Ancient Greek word "kepōn", which also means "chest" or "hollow". The term "capstan" was originally used to describe a large wooden or metal drum-shaped device with a vertical axle, which resembles a box or chest. The capstan was primarily used on ships to assist with pulling heavy ropes, cables, or anchors. Over time, the term "capstan" became associated with any similar rotating device used for hauling or lifting heavy objects, such as in the context of industrial machinery.
Similar spelling words for CAPSTAN
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