wind2
/
wʌɪnd/
v.
(past and past part. wound
/waʊnd/
)
- move in or take a twisting or spiral course.
- pass (something) around a thing or person so as to encircle or enfold them.
▸(with reference to a length of something) twist or be twisted around itself or a core.
- make (a clock or clockwork device) operate by turning a key or handle.
▸turn (a key or handle) repeatedly.
- move (an audio or video tape or a film) back or forwards to a desired point.
- hoist or draw with a windlass, winch, etc.
n.
- a twist or turn in a course.
- a single turn made when winding.
Phrase verbal
- wind down
- (of a clockwork mechanism) gradually lose power.
- informal relax.
-
(also wind something down)
draw or bring gradually to a close.
- wind up
informal end up in a specified state, situation, or place. - wind someone up
Brit. informal tease or irritate someone. - wind something up
- arrange the affairs of and dissolve a company.
- gradually bring an activity to a conclusion.
- informal increase the tension or power of something.
Etymology
OE windan ‘go rapidly, twine’, of Gmc origin; rel. to wander and wend.