A crane is a tall bird with long legs and a long neck; it is also a large machine with a long arm used for lifting and moving heavy objects.
From Old English “cran,” related to German “Kran,” originally naming the bird. The machine was later named after the bird because its long arm and posture resemble a crane’s neck.
The bird came first; the machine borrowed its name by imitation. Next time you see a construction crane, you can imagine a giant metal bird standing over the city, lowering and lifting with its long neck.
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