1. Elevator: This is the most common meaning of "lift" in American English. It refers to a vertical transportation system that moves people or goods between floors in a building.
2. To Raise or Pick Up: "Lift" can also mean to raise something or someone up, often with effort.
* "Can you lift that heavy box?"
* "The crane lifted the steel beams into place."
* "She lifted her chin proudly."
3. To Steal: In some regions of the US, "lift" can be slang for "steal" or "take something without permission."
* "Someone lifted my wallet from my purse."
4. A Positive Emotional State: Less commonly, "lift" can refer to a feeling of excitement or happiness.
* "The music gave me a real lift."
5. A Ride: In British English, "lift" can mean a ride in a car, but this usage is not common in American English.
In summary: While the meaning of "lift" can vary depending on the context, its most common usage in American English is as a synonym for "elevator."