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Glite Dictionary
starting handle

starting handle

8.8
A metal crank you put into an engine and turn by hand to make it run
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : manivela de arranque
  • The mechanic used the starting handle to get the old car's engine running.

Examples

  • Early tractors required a starting handle before they could operate.

  • The old tractor still uses a starting handle.

  • Always keep the starting handle in the glove compartment for emergencies.

  • He grabbed the starting handle to begin the engine.

  • The mechanic used the starting handle to get the old car's engine running.

  • Early tractors required a starting handle before they could operate.

  • Always keep the starting handle in the glove compartment for emergencies.

Synonyms

starter
vsstarting handle
34 3.5

A device that makes a car or machine engine start

is a metal tool inserted into an engine and turned to start older engines
crank handle
vsstarting handle
4.9

A piece you turn by hand to start an engine or make a machine work

is inserted into an engine and turned by hand to start older engines
recrank
vsstarting handle
  • Specialized
9.9

A spare handle used to turn a machine by hand

is the primary hand tool for starting an engine rather than a spare

Surface Forms

starting handle singular
starting handles plural

Morphology

starting + handle

The compound meaning ('a handle used to start something') is directly and compositionally derived from 'starting' (for beginning) + 'handle' (a part meant to be held), following common English modifier+noun patterns. While the specific artifact (a metal crank for older engines) may be unfamiliar, the function is predictable, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent words can infer its meaning.

Etymology

Starting handle comes from the real words starting and handle: it is a metal handle you put into an engine and turn by hand to make it start. So the name simply means the metal tool used 'to start' an engine.