Etymology

Verb

1. To raise; to lift; to elevate; especially, to raise or lift to a desired elevation, by means of tackle or pulley, as a sail, a flag, a heavy package or weight.
   • 1719: Daniel Defoe, Robinson Crusoe

     ...but this last was so heavy, I could not hoist it up to get it over the ship's side.

2. To lift someone up to be flogged.
3. To be lifted up.

Usage notes

• "Hoisted" is about fifteen times more common than "hoist" in US usage as past and past participle.

Quotations

• They land my goods, and hoist my flying sails. — Alexander Pope
• Hoisting him into his father’s throne. — Robert South

Noun

1. A hoisting device, such as pulley or crane.
2. The perpendicular height of a flag, as opposed to the fly, or horizontal length, when flying from a staff.
3. The vertical edge of a flag which is next to the staff.
4. The height of a fore-and-aft sail, next the mast or stay.