Lifts

primarily refer to vertical transport systems (elevators) in buildings, moving people/goods between floors, but also broadly mean any device or action to raise something, like ski lifts, forklifts, scissor lifts for work, or even the act of raising something (e.g., “lift a car”). In Commonwealth English (UK, Aus, etc.), “lift” is standard; in North America, “elevator” is used. They use cables, motors, and counterweights (traction) or hydraulics to operate, ensuring building accessibility and efficiency.
Types of Lifts

Building Lifts (Elevators): The most common, from passenger lifts in skyscrapers to home lifts and wheelchair lifts for accessibility.
Industrial Lifts: Forklifts (material handling), scissor lifts (aerial work platforms).

Recreational/Transport Lifts: Ski lifts (aerial/surface), paternoster lifts (continuous chain).
Assistive Lifts: Stairlifts, patient lifts (Hoyer lifts) for mobility issues.
How They Work (Building Lifts)
Mechanism: Electric motors pull cables attached to a car and a counterweight, balancing the load for efficiency.

Components: Car, motor, cables, counterweight, safety systems, control panel.
Power: Electric (traction) or hydraulic (pumping fluid).
Other Meanings
As a Verb: To raise or hoist something (e.g., “lift a heavy box”).
Informal (UK): “Doing lifts” can mean illegal ride-sharing via social media.
In essence, if it moves things vertically or requires effort to raise, it’s likely a “lift” in the broader sense, with building elevators being the most prominent example.