elevator

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɛlɪveɪtə/

noun

  • 2a machine consisting of an endless belt with scoops attached, used for raising grain to an upper storey for storage: a grain elevator
  • North American a tall building used for storing grain: in the harbour a giant elevator stores prairie grain
  • 3a hinged flap on the tailplane of an aircraft, typically one of a pair, used to control the motion of the aircraft about its lateral axis: first you trim the rudder, then the ailerons, and finally the elevator
  • 4a muscle whose contraction raises a part of the body: elevators of the upper lip
  • 5North American trademark (also elevator shoe) a shoe with a raised insole designed to make the wearer appear taller: something in his gait made me sure he was wearing elevator shoes

Origin:

mid 17th century (denoting a muscle): modern Latin, from Latin elevare 'raise'; in later use directly from elevate