windmill

//ˈwɪnd.mɪl//
B1Frequency Level 12Neutral
Visual representation of windmill

Noun

windmillSingular
windmillsPlural
1

A structure with large rotating blades powered by the wind, traditionally used for grinding grain or pumping water.

The old windmill on the hill was used to grind wheat into flour.

2

A modern wind turbine used to generate electricity.

The windmills on the hill generate electricity for the town.

3

A toy consisting of vanes attached to a stick that spin when blown by the wind.

The child ran through the park holding a colorful windmill.

Verb

1

To move one's arms in a circular motion resembling the blades of a windmill.

The swimmer windmilled her arms to warm up before the race.