# Sylvester

/sɪɫˈvɛstɝ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sylvester
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a special tool used in mining to pull out heavy wooden supports from the ground. It uses a long handle and a chain to create a lot of force.

For teachers: a mechanical device consisting of a long lever and a chain, used in underground mining to extract pit props or roof supports. Primarily used in historical or traditional mining contexts.

## Examples

- The miner used a sylvester to pull the old timber from the wall.
- Before modern hydraulic systems were common, miners relied on the sylvester to safely remove wooden supports from worked-out areas.
- The mechanical advantage provided by the sylvester allowed a single worker to exert enough force to dislodge heavy props that had been compressed by the weight of the overlying rock.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in British mining terminology; often referred to as a 'prop-drawer'.

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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.