Handspike

/ˈhændˌspaɪk/ noun

Definition

A wooden or metal bar with a handle used as a lever to move heavy objects, particularly in nautical or construction work.

Etymology

Compound of 'hand' and 'spike' (a pointed projection). This tool was essential in ship-building and handling cargo before modern machinery made manual labor less necessary.

Kelly Says

Sailors loved the handspike because you could use it as a lever to move barrels of cargo, shift ship's equipment, or wedge things tight—it was basically a medieval crowbar with a convenient handle.

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