A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Compared with the 1990s, cranking up growth is harder and relies more on productivity gains.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 13, 2026
The food-and-beverage industry has been cranking out new products to cut through consumer malaise and compete with retailers’ store-brand products, which are cheaper but at times just as innovative.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 28, 2026
Beijing introduced new rules this month cracking down on overseas investments, citing national security concerns and cranking up curbs on buying US shares that were imposed on Chinese investors in May.
From Barron's ● Jul. 3, 2026
“He wants to get cranking again,” Roberts said, “but the doctors just aren’t allowing it and the body is not allowing for it right now.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 7, 2026
Liam knelt beside Zu, who was holding on to the spare tire with everything she had, and went to work cranking the van up on the jack and off the demolished back right tire.
From "The Darkest Minds" by Alexandra Bracken
