A person or device that lifts something. The lifter carefully hoisted the heavy box onto the shelf.
A weightlifter, especially one who competes in weightlifting competitions. The lifter broke the national record with his impressive clean and jerk.
A tool or machine used to raise or elevate objects. The hydraulic lifter was used to elevate the car for repairs.
In an internal-combustion engine, a cylindrical component (also called a tappet) that transmits motion from the camshaft lobe to the valve. The mechanic replaced the worn lifters to eliminate the engine's ticking noise.
(Slang) A shoplifter; one who steals goods from a store. Store security detained a suspected lifter near the exit.