turnspit

American  

[turn-spit] / ˈtɜrnˌspɪt /

noun

1. a spit that rotates or can be rotated.

2. a mechanically or manually operated device for turning a spit on which meat is roasted.

3. a person who turns a spit.

4. a small dog having a long body and short legs, used formerly to work a treadmill that turned a spit.

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turnspit British  

/ ˈtɜːnˌspɪt /

noun

1. (formerly) a servant or small dog whose job was to turn the spit on which meat, poultry, etc, was roasting

2. a spit that can be so turned

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Etymology

Origin of turnspit

First recorded in 1570–80; turn + spit ²

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

turnspit

Modern cooking technologies eliminated the need for turnspit dogs, and they faded away.

From New York Times ● Feb. 15, 2011

In the Middle Ages, many households employed a turnspit dog, a breed developed to turn roasting meat by running inside a small cage that resembled a hamster wheel.

From New York Times ● Feb. 15, 2011

Mr. Jesse, a popular writer on rural subjects, was a keen observer of old-time customs and institutions, and the best account of the turnspit that has come under our notice is from his pen.

From England in the Days of Old by Andrews, William

Buffon calls the turnspit the Basset à jambes torses, but some of the breed are said to have straight legs.

From Anecdotes of Dogs by Jesse, Edward

How well do I recollect, in the days of my youth, watching the operations of a turnspit at the house of a worthy old Welsh clergyman in Worcestershire, who taught me to read.

From Anecdotes of Dogs by Jesse, Edward