v. hoist·ed, hoist·ing, hoists v.tr. 1. To raise or haul up, often with the help of a mechanical apparatus. See Synonyms at lift. 2. To raise to one's mouth in order to drink: hoist a few beers. v.intr. To become raised or lifted. n. 1. An apparatus for lifting heavy or cumbersome objects. 2. The act of hoisting; a lift. 3. Nautical a. The height or vertical dimension of a flag or of any square sail other than a course. b. A group of flags raised together as a signal. [Alteration of dialectal hoise, perhaps variant of Middle English hisse, heave!, possibly from Middle Dutch hissen, to haul.] hoister n. |
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