ratchet

¹ratch·et

noun \ˈra-chət\

Definition of RATCHET

1

: a mechanism that consists of a bar or wheel having inclined teeth into which a pawl drops so that motion can be imparted to the wheel or bar, governed, or prevented and that is used in a hand tool (as a wrench or screwdriver) to allow effective motion in one direction only

2

: a pawl or detent for holding or propelling a toothed wheel

Variants of RATCHET

ratch·et also rach·et \ˈra-chət\

Origin of RATCHET

alteration of earlier rochet, from French, alteration of Middle French rocquet ratchet, bobbin, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German rocko distaff — more at rock

First Known Use: 1654

Other Mechanical Engineering Terms

centrifuge, differential, flange, lathe, linchpin, pinion, plenum, traction

Rhymes with RATCHET

hatchet, latchet