What is a "clothes hoist"?

A clothes hoist is a device used for hanging clothes or fabrics to dry outdoors. It is typically a tall metal or wooden pole with a crossbar or arms attached to it. The arms have several lines or ropes attached to them, which can be extended and tied to nearby trees, posts, or walls. Clothes are then hung on the lines, allowing them to dry naturally in the sun and air. Clothes hoists can also be mounted on a wall or attached to a balcony or porch. They are commonly used in areas where clothes dryers are not readily available or where people prefer to air-dry their clothes to save energy and money.