go-devil

American  

[goh-dev-uhl] / ˈgoʊˌdɛv əl /

noun

1. a flexible, jointed apparatus forced through a pipeline to free it from obstructions.

2. a dart dropped into a well, especially an oil well, to explode a charge of dynamite or nitroglycerin previously placed in a desired position.

3. Railroads. a handcar.

4. a sled used to drag or carry logs, stone, etc.

5. Also called sled cultivator.  a cultivator that rides on wooden runners and is used on listed furrows.

6. Western U.S. any exceptionally fast or effective machine or appliance.

   That food processor is a real go-devil.

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Etymology

Origin of go-devil

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Example Sentences

Painted and caparisoned in madcap masquerade, they leap down from their green go-devil and race through startled crowds like advance men for oncoming chaos.

From Time Magazine Archive

Van Horn, who had run to the extreme right of the new sector, and was keeping a close watch on the go-devil, was the first to perceive trouble.

From Laramie Holds the Range by Spearman, Frank H. (Frank Hamilton)

When the bustling, contradicting and confusion finally subsided, the wagon was stealthily pushed over the ridge, the hay fired and the blazing outfit, christened a go-devil, was started with a shout down the slope.

From Laramie Holds the Range by Spearman, Frank H. (Frank Hamilton)

"The day isn't over," was the answer, "and I've got two big holes to drop the go-devil down."

From Jack Ranger's Western Trip Or, from Boarding School to Ranch and Range by Young, Clarence

"All ready!" shouted Bob, as he looked around to see that every one was in a safe position, and then approached the well with the go-devil in his hands.

From Ralph Gurney's Oil Speculation by Otis, James