Definition of: hoist

(hoist) v.t.
To raise to a higher position; lift or heave up, especially by some mechanical means.
—noun
1. A hoisting machine; lift.
2. The act of hoisting; a boost.
3. The vertical dimension of a flag or the like, measured along the pole or halyard: distinguished from the fly.
4. Naut. a The length of a sail between the boom and the peak or the jaws of the gaff. b The midship depth of a square sail set by hoisting the yard. [? <Du. hijschen]
—hoist′er noun