derrick

der-rick · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A type of crane with a movable pivoted arm for lifting heavy weights, especially on ships.

  2. 2.

    The framework over an oil well or similar hole, used to support drilling equipment.

Forms

plural: derricks

Related words

See also: crane, hoist, rig
Synonyms: crane, hoist, rig

Etymology

Named after Thomas Derrick, a 17th-century English executioner who invented a type of gallows. The term was later applied to hoisting apparatus resembling his device.