capstan

[ kap-stuhn, -stan ]

noun

1. any of various windlasses, rotated in a horizontal plane by hand or machinery, for winding in ropes, cables, etc.
2. a rotating spindle or shaft, powered by an electric motor, that transports magnetic tape past the heads of a tape recorder at a constant speed.

capstan

/ ˈkæpstən /

noun

1. a machine with a drum that rotates round a vertical spindle and is turned by a motor or lever, used for hauling in heavy ropes, etc
2. any similar device, such as the rotating shaft in a tape recorder that pulls the tape past the head

Word History and Origins

Origin of capstan¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Middle French cabestan ( t ) < Old Provençal cabestan, variant of cabestran, presumably present participle of *cabest ( r ) ar, a verbal derivative of cabestre halter < Latin capistrum

Word History and Origins

Origin of capstan¹

C14: from Old Provençal cabestan, from Latin capistrum a halter, from capere to seize

Example Sentences

"This organized conspiracy on your part," the capstan gurgled, taking his cue from the mast.

From Project Gutenberg

I would drive her faster, but as the lift is hanging in the capstan rope under water, they are not willing to risk it.

From Project Gutenberg

By the help of the capstan he had raised to the deck of the Durande the package which he had made of the lading of the sloop.

From Project Gutenberg

The cargo of the sloop hoisted on to the deck by the capstan, compact as he had made it, was an encumbrance.

From Project Gutenberg

I tied myself around another capstan, and I says, "Good-night, Tommy!"

From Project Gutenberg