1. a tall framework or tower equipped with tackle for moving heavy objects, especially used in construction or oil drilling
2. a framework over an oil well that supports drilling equipment
Usage: oil industry

Examples

• The construction crew used a derrick to lift the steel beams into place.
• An oil derrick towered above the drilling site in the desert.
• The derrick’s cables groaned under the weight of the heavy machinery.
• Workers assembled the derrick before beginning the oil exploration.
• The old derrick was dismantled after the well ran dry.
• A massive derrick dominated the skyline of the industrial port.