Derrick (?), n. [Orig., a gallows, from a hangman named Derrick. The name is of Dutch origin; D. Diederik, Dierryk, prop. meaning, chief of the people; cf. AS. peódric, E. Theodoric, G. Dietrich. See Dutch, and Rich.]
1. A mast, spar, or tall frame, supported at the top by stays or guys, and usually pivoted at the base, with suitable tackle for hoisting heavy weights, such as stones in building.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Mining) The pyramidal structure or tower over a deep drill hole, such as that of an oil well (also called an oil derrick .
[Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]
Derrick crane, a combination of the derrick and the crane, having facility for hoisting and also for swinging the load horizontally.
[1913 Webster]