block and tackle

noun

: pulley blocks with associated rope or cable for hoisting or hauling

Word History

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of block and tackle was in 1717

Dictionary Entries Near block and tackle

Cite this Entry

“Block and tackle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/block%20and%20tackle. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

block and tackle

noun
: an arrangement of pulley blocks and rope or cable for hoisting or hauling

More from Merriam-Webster on block and tackle

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!