lifts
|lift|
/lɪft/
(lift)
raise
Etymology
'lift' originates from Old Norse, specifically the verb 'lypta', where the root meant 'to raise'.
'lift' passed into Middle English as 'līften' or similar forms (influenced by Old Norse usage) and eventually became the modern English word 'lift'.
Initially, it meant 'to raise or take up', and over time it retained that central sense while also developing extended senses such as 'give a ride' and 'remove a restriction'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mechanical platform or compartment used to transport people or goods between different floors of a building (British: elevator).
The building has two lifts, so you rarely wait long for one.
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Noun 2
a ride in a car offered by someone (informal): being given transport to a place.
She often gives lifts to her neighbors when she drives to town.
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Noun 3
an act of raising something (especially in weightlifting or moving heavy objects).
His training includes several heavy lifts each session.
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Verb 1
third-person singular form of 'lift': to raise or move something to a higher position or remove it from a surface.
She lifts the box carefully onto the shelf.
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Verb 2
third-person singular form of 'lift': to remove a restriction, rule, or ban.
The council lifts the curfew after conditions improve.
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Last updated: 2025/12/02 12:13