noun

1. (spinning) A rod used for spinning and then winding natural fibres (especially wool), usually consisting of a shaft and a circular whorl positioned at either the upper or lower end of the shaft when suspended vertically from the forming thread.

2. A rod which turns, or on which something turns.

   “the spindle of a vane”

3. A rotary axis of a machine tool or power tool.

Synonyms: spindle tree

verb

1. To make into a long tapered shape.

2. To take on a long tapered shape.

3. To impale on a device for holding paper documents.

   “Do not fold, spindle or mutilate this document.”