winder

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a worker who winds (e.g., a winch or clock or other mechanism)
noun mechanical device used to wind another device that is driven by a spring (as a clock)
noun mechanical device around which something can be wound

From Middle English wynder; equivalent to wind + -er.

"Except breakin' the winder, ma'am." — Only an Irish Boy; Or, Andy Burke's Fortunes, Horatio, Jr. Alger
I see him through the winder. — Cast Upon the Breakers, Horatio, Jr. Alger
Winder, without waiting for reinforcements, attacked. — The Long Roll, Mary Johnston

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