'Turnspit' definitions:

Definition of 'turnspit'

noun

A roasting spit that can be turned

From: GCIDE

Turnspit \Turn"spit`\, n.
1. One who turns a spit; hence, a person engaged in some menial office. [1913 Webster]
His lordship is his majesty's turnspit. --Burke. [1913 Webster]
2. (Zool.) A small breed of dogs having a long body and short crooked legs. These dogs were formerly much used for turning a spit on which meat was roasting. [1913 Webster]