- 1a handle used to operate a vehicle or piece of machinery Pull the lever toward you to adjust the speed.
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- 2a long piece of wood, metal, etc. used for lifting or opening something by someone placing one end of it under an object and pushing down on the other end We had to use a lever to prize open the window.
- 3lever (for/against something) an action that is used to put pressure on someone to do something they do not want to do The threat of sanctions is our most powerful lever for peace.
Check pronunciation: lever