# pulley

/ˈpʊɫi/ (US) · /pˈʊli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pulley
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. lifting machine

noun · CEFR B2

a wheel with a groove for a rope or chain, used to pull or lift heavy things.

For teachers: a wheel with a grooved rim in which a pulled rope or chain runs, used to change the direction of a force or provide mechanical advantage.

- The workers used a pulley to lift the heavy engine out of the truck.
- By using a system of multiple pulleys, the technician was able to hoist the heavy machinery with significantly less physical effort.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'block and tackle' when referring to a system of multiple pulleys.

### 2. to lift using a wheel

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to move or lift something using a pulley system.

For teachers: to raise, lower, or move an object by means of a pulley or system of pulleys.

- They pulleyed the supplies up to the second floor of the construction site.
- The crew pulleyed the heavy stage equipment into the rafters before the concert began.

Usage: This verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

## Examples

- The worker used a pulley to lift the heavy box.
- The construction crew installed a series of pulleys to help move the heavy steel beams into place.
- By using a compound pulley system, the engineers were able to distribute the weight of the massive turbine across several ropes, significantly reducing the strain on the lifting equipment.

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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.