pulley
UK[ˈpʊli]US[ˈpʊli]
n
a wheel over which a rope or chain is pulled in order to lift or lower heavy objects.
Etymology
the word 'pulley' entered middle english from the old french 'polie', which itself is believed to be derived from medieval latin 'poleia'. the ultimate origin is uncertain but is often traced to ancient greek 'polos', meaning "pivot, axis" or "a small wheel". this etymological journey reflects the core function of the device—a wheel rotating on an axis to redirect force. the modern english spelling and meaning have remained remarkably stable, directly naming the simple machine used for lifting.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is a loanword from old french 'polie', meaning "a pulley, windlass".
Examples
the rope was threaded through a pulley attached to the ceiling.
a system of pulleys made it possible to lift the heavy engine.
the old well used a simple pulley and bucket.