ratchet

A tool for turning nuts or bolts that can move back without turning the nut or bolt back.

• Pass me the ratchet, please.
• He used a ratchet to loosen the bolt.
• Does this socket fit your ratchet?

Similar words: ratchet wrench, socket wrench

Common phrases: a socket ratchet, use a ratchet, ratchet handle

A device with teeth and a catch that allows movement in one direction but prevents movement back.

• The ratchet stops the wheel turning backwards.
• You can hear the ratchet clicking as you tighten the strap.
• A broken tooth prevented the ratchet from locking.

Common phrases: ratchet mechanism, ratchet wheel, a clicking ratchet

A rule or process that allows change in one direction but makes reversing it difficult.

• The policy created an upward ratchet in costs.
• The wage agreement acted as a ratchet, preventing later reductions.
• Economists warned of a ratchet effect in public spending.

Common phrases: ratchet effect, an upward ratchet, a spending ratchet

A small part that catches a toothed wheel and stops it turning backwards.

• The ratchet caught the next tooth.
• A spring holds the ratchet against the wheel.
• The wheel slipped backwards when the ratchet broke.

Similar words: pawl, catch, detent

Common phrases: ratchet pawl, release the ratchet, ratchet catch

To increase, reduce, or tighten something in small steps.

• He ratcheted the strap tight.
• The government ratcheted up pressure on the company.
• Can we ratchet spending down gradually?

How to use it: ratchet something up/down (The bank ratcheted interest rates up again.); ratchet up/down something (They ratcheted down their demands.)

Similar words: adjust gradually, tighten

Common phrases: ratchet something up, ratchet something down, ratchet the strap

To move or change in small steps, often with a mechanism that prevents movement back.

• The handle ratchets into position.
• Tensions ratcheted up after the announcement.
• The seat ratchets forward but cannot slide back freely.

How to use it: ratchet up/down (Prices ratcheted up throughout the summer.)

Similar words: shift, change gradually

Common phrases: ratchet up, ratchet down, ratchet into place