crank

Definition

Hard; difficult.

Etymology

From Dutch or Low German krank, ultimately from Proto-West Germanic *krank, from Proto-Germanic *krangaz, *krankaz (“bent; weak”). Cognate with Scots crank, krank, German krank (“sick”).

Example Sentences

• "This ship is so crank and walty I fear our grave she will be!"
• "The stowage was clumsily done, and the vessel consequently crank."
• "He who was a little before bedred[…]was now cranke and lustie."