windmills
noun
Definitions
A machine which translates linear motion of wind to rotational motion by means of adjustable vanes called sails.
The structure containing such machinery.
A child's toy consisting of vanes mounted on a stick that rotate when blown by a person or by the wind.
A dunk where the dunker swings his arm in a circular motion before throwing the ball through the hoop.
verb
Definitions
To rotate with a sweeping motion.
Example: She ran down the hill, windmilling her arms with glee.
Of a rotating part of a machine, to (become disengaged and) rotate freely.
Example: The axle broke and the wheel windmilled in place briefly before careening through the wall.