# hoisting

/ˈhɔɪstɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈɔɪstɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hoisting
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

lifting something heavy using a rope, a machine, or a lot of effort. You use this when moving large objects like flags, sails, or construction materials.

For teachers: the present participle of 'hoist', referring to the act of raising or lifting something, especially by means of ropes and pulleys. Often implies the movement of a significant weight or the formal raising of a flag.

## Examples

- The workers are hoisting the heavy beam into place.
- The crew spent the morning hoisting the sails as the wind began to pick up near the coast.
- By hoisting the commemorative banner to the rafters, the team signaled the official opening of the new stadium to the cheering crowd.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object; often used in the continuous form to describe an ongoing physical action.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.