1. a mechanism with a toothed wheel that allows motion in only one direction

1. to move or operate by means of a ratchet mechanism
2. to increase or decrease by degrees
Usage: often used with ‘up’ or ‘down’

Examples

• The mechanic used a ratchet wrench to tighten the bolt.
• You can hear the ratchet click as you turn the handle.
• The tension continued to ratchet up between the two countries.
• She ratcheted the jack handle to lift the car.
• The company plans to ratchet down production costs.
• The ratchet mechanism prevents the rope from slipping back.