derrick

Noun

WordNet 3.0

Noun (2)

  1. a framework erected over an oil well to allow drill tubes to be raised and lowered
  2. a simple crane having lifting tackle slung from a boom
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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Derrick \Der"rick\, n. [Orig., a gallows, from a hangman named Derrick. The name is of Dutch origin; D. Diederik, Dierryk, prop. meaning, chief of the people; cf. AS. pe['o]dric, E. Theodoric, G. Dietrich. See Dutch, and Rich.]

1.A mast, spar, or tall frame, supported at the top by stays or guys, and usually pivoted at the base, with suitable tackle for hoisting heavy weights, such as stones in building. [1913 Webster]

2.(Mining) The pyramidal structure or tower over a deep drill hole, such as that of an oil well (also called an oil derrick . [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]

Derrick crane, a combination of the derrick and the crane, having facility for hoisting and also for swinging the load horizontally. [1913 Webster]

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