Literally, a bend or turn. Hence, an iron axis with the end bent like an elbow, for moving a piston, the saw in a saw-mill, and causing it to rise and fall at every turn.

Any bend, turn or winding.

A twisting or turning is speech; a conceit which consists in a change of the form or meaning of a word. Quips and cranks, and wanton wiles.

An iron brace for various purposes./\ .

In seamens language, liable to be overset, as a ship when she is too narrow, or has not sufficient ballast to carry full sail. WV“IAD .

Stout; bold; erect; as a cock crowing crank.

To run in a winding course; to bend, wind and turn. See how this river comes me crankling in.