turn someone's crank

Definitions

To arouse a person's interest or passion; to excite someone.

informal

Examples

“McGwire had said that international competition did not "turn⟳ my crank," but the players on the dais today seemed positively excited about the trip⟳.”

“But it was journalism that turned his crank. He loved knowing the secrets and the gossip; he loved trafficking in information.”

“[A]bsolutely nothing beats pursuing the path that truly fascinates your brain, engages your energy, and touches your soul. Whatever you do, do what turns your crank.”

“Yet if you ask⟳ guys which Hollywood stars most turn⟳ their crank, you'd be surprised who their answers might be, and why.”

CEFR level