starting handle

American  

noun

British.

1. a crank used to start the motor of an automobile.

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Etymology

Origin of starting handle

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Then she heard the two men working, tools clattering, murmured voices, and in ten minutes Foss said: "Try the starting handle."

From The Happy Foreigner by Bagnold, Enid

The starting handle merely achieves this change of position.

From A Catechism of the Steam Engine by Bourne, John, C.E.

"I bet you don't get any one to do that for you in your army, do you?" he asked, as he straightened himself from the starting handle.

From The Happy Foreigner by Bagnold, Enid

Then he gave another jerk to the starting handle.

From Lady Bountiful by Birmingham, George A.

The electric lights became dim under the strain of the heavy motor, as he slid up the starting handle.

From Peter the Brazen A Mystery Story of Modern China by Hoskins, Gayle Porter