1) A large lever employed to raise or move heavy substances. Used also in some parts of England.--Worcester.
TO PRY
2) To move or raise by means of a large lever.--Worcester.
·noun A lever; also, leverage. II. Pry ·noun Curious inspection; impertinent peeping. III. Pry ·vt...
Webster's Dictionary of the English Language
To examine minutely into a matter or business. A prying fellow; a man of impertinent curiosity, apt ...
Dictionary of The Vulgar Tongue by Francis Grose