lever (EN)

noun, verb

noun “lever”

1. a rigid bar that pivots on a fixed point to move or lift a load when force is applied at another point
   Sign up to see the translation of definitions and examples into any language.

   He used a lever to lift the heavy stone.
2. a method used to pressure someone into doing something they are reluctant to do
   The manager used the threat of cutting bonuses as a lever to make the team work overtime.
3. a handle that you move to operate a machine or device
   Pull the lever to start the engine.

verb “lever”

1. to move something using a lever
   They levered the lid off the container.
2. (UK, finance) to increase the amount of debt in a company's capital structure
   The firm levered up to finance its new project.