winder

American  

[wahyn-der] / ˈwaɪn dər /

noun

1. a person or thing that winds.

2. a staircase step for changing direction.

3. a plant that coils or twines itself about something.

4. an instrument or a machine for winding thread or the like.

---

winder British  

/ ˈwaɪndə /

noun

1. a person or device that winds, as an engine for hoisting the cages in a mine shaft or a device for winding the yarn in textile manufacture

2. an object, such as a bobbin, around which something is wound

3. a knob or key used to wind up a clock, watch, or similar mechanism

4. any plant that twists itself around a support

5. a step of a spiral staircase

---

Etymology

Origin of winder

First recorded in 1545–55; wind ² + -er ¹

Example Sentences

That Susan bit the royal clock winder and a young palace sentry is a matter of record, though her epitaph leaves out such indiscretions.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2022

Johansson corralled the puck and found winder Jordan Eberle, who was all alone to Comrie’s right.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 17, 2022

Christina Cardone, of Philadelphia, headed for the ball winder.

From Washington Post • Oct. 12, 2017

The hoisting apparatus for a cage that carries people instead of rock is called a man winder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 13, 2013

Fust, bolt dat door, Brudder Isaac, an' see to de fastenin' o' dat winder, Sister Hera; no knowin' who'se 'bout.

From The Haunted Homestead A Novel by Southworth, Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte