Merriam-Webster Dictionary
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Main Entry: crank
Date: 1592
intransitive senses
1 : to move with a winding course : ZIGZAG
2 a : to turn a crank b : to get started by or as if by the turning of a crank c : to gain speed, momentum, or intensity -- usually used with up
transitive senses
1 : to move or operate by or as if by a crank
2 a : to cause to start (as an automobile) b : to rotate the shaft (as a crankshaft ) of especially with a starter c : to use in trying to start an engine
3 a : to start as if by use of a crank -- usually used with up b : TURN UP 2 -- usually used with up