(n.) A vertical cleated drum or cylinder, revolving on an upright spindle, and surmounted by a drumhead with sockets for bars or levers. It is much used, especially on shipboard, for moving or raising heavy weights or exerting great power by traction upon a rope or cable, passing around the drum. It is operated either by steam power or by a number of men walking around the capstan, each pushing on the end of a lever fixed in its socket.
Example Sentences:
(1) Rotation of a permanent pacemaker can result in a capstan effect, and the lead is drawn out of the right ventricle.
(2) The same holds for pulley- and capstan-form toric surfaces.
Moulinet
Definition:
(n.) The drum upon which the rope is wound in a capstan, crane, or the like.
(n.) A machine formerly used for bending a crossbow by winding it up.
(n.) In sword and saber exercises, a circular swing of the weapon.