go-devil

[ goh-dev-uhl ]

noun

a flexible, jointed apparatus forced through a pipeline to free it from obstructions.
a dart dropped into a well, especially an oil well, to explode a charge of dynamite or nitroglycerin previously placed in a desired position.

Railroads. a handcar.
a sled used to drag or carry logs, stone, etc.
Also called sled cultivator. a cultivator that rides on wooden runners and is used on listed furrows.
Western U.S. any exceptionally fast or effective machine or appliance: That food processor is a real go-devil.

Origin of go-devil

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

A traveling primer or "go-devil squib" was then prepared as follows: A tin cone, 14 in.
Scientific American Supplement, No. 611, September 17, 1887 | Various
He lived a lucky-go-devil, who could squander in a night of debauch more than he could earn in a month of labor.
Kentucky in American Letters, v. 1 of 2 | John Wilson Townsend
Generally get some visiting lady, when there's one round, to drop the go-devil.
The March Family Trilogy, Complete | William Dean Howells
Maybe you're broke and know you'll have to work like a go-devil when you get here!
Alaska | Ella Higginson
At night the Monarch was released from the “go-devil” and secured only by his chains to a large tree.
True Bear Stories | Joaquin Miller

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