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

"Eh va bene", he murmured through closed lips, and leaned forward grimly for the starting handle.

From Sea and Sardinia by Lawrence, D. H. (David Herbert)

They were on the point of starting, the chauffeur with his hand upon the starting handle, French with the steering wheel of the police car already in his hand.

From The Black Box by Oppenheim, E. Phillips (Edward Phillips)

He opened the bonnet, stared a second, then tried the starting handle.

From The Happy Foreigner by Bagnold, Enid

"You've always got to turn that switch first, before you turn the starting handle," explained Jack.

From Dick Hamilton's Airship, or, a Young Millionaire in the Clouds by Garis, Howard Roger

He gave the starting handle a single turn.

From Lady Bountiful by Birmingham, George A.