sheave

Definition

A wheel having a groove in the rim for a rope to work in, and set in a block, mast, or similar; the wheel of a pulley.

Etymology

From Middle English, from a Germanic base akin to German Scheibe, late Old Norse skífa (“slice”), all ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *skey- (“to split”). For more see shive.

Example Sentences

• "To an exceptional degree the duties on these inclines have been passed on from father to son; many a boy has begun his working life in oiling the sheaves and, after passing through every grade, has reached the age of retirement in the responsible position of brakesman."