turnspit

[ turn-spit ]

noun

1. a spit that rotates or can be rotated.
2. a mechanically or manually operated device for turning turn a spit on which meat is roasted.
3. a person who turns a spit.
4. a small dog having a long body and short legs, used formerly to work a treadmill that turned a spit.

turnspit

/ ˈtɜːnˌspɪt /

noun

1. (formerly) a servant or small dog whose job was to turn the spit on which meat, poultry, etc, was roasting
2. a spit that can be so turned

Word History and Origins

Origin of turnspit¹

First recorded in 1570–80; turn + spit ²

Example Sentences

With disparaging magnanimity in victory, Henry took Simnel into his kitchens as a turnspit.

From The Daily Beast

Reform was foiled, as Burke put it, because the turnspit in the king's kitchen was a member of parliament.

From Project Gutenberg

A turnspit is represented in his wheel, with the chain attached to the spit, for roasting the joint before the fire.

From Project Gutenberg

Accordingly, the other turnspit was sent for, and he entered the spit very willingly, and turned away.

From Project Gutenberg

The dog worked in a cage, operating a wheel or drum which in its turn revolved the turnspit.

From Project Gutenberg

At last we thought we heard him, and he came out looking more like a turnspit than a well-bred fox terrier.

From Project Gutenberg