ratchet Definition
- 1a device consisting of a bar or wheel with a set of angled teeth in which a pawl, cog, or tooth engages, allowing motion in one direction only.
- 2a situation or process that is perceived to be deteriorating or changing steadily in a series of irreversible steps.
- 3a derogatory term used to describe a woman who is considered to be promiscuous or trashy.
Using ratchet: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ratchet" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I used a ratchet to tighten the bolts on the car engine.
Example
The ratchet of violence continued to escalate in the city.
Example
She was called a ratchet because of her revealing clothing and behavior.
Example
He was criticized for using the word 'ratchet' to describe women.
ratchet Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for ratchet
Phrases with ratchet
ratchet up
to increase or intensify something gradually
Example
The company plans to ratchet up production next year.
Example
The government is trying to ratchet down tensions between the two countries.
a phenomenon where progress or improvement is made in small increments, but then lost in a single large step backwards
Example
The ratchet effect can be seen in the slow progress of environmental protection policies, which can be undone by a single administration.
Origins of ratchet
from Middle English 'racchette', meaning 'a blunt-toothed tool'
Summary: ratchet in Brief
The term 'ratchet' [ˈrætʃɪt] refers to a device with angled teeth that allows motion in one direction only. It also denotes a situation or process that is perceived to be deteriorating or changing steadily in a series of irreversible steps. Additionally, it is a derogatory term used to describe a woman who is considered to be promiscuous or trashy. 'Ratchet' extends into phrases like 'ratchet up,' meaning to increase or intensify something gradually, and 'ratchet down,' meaning to decrease or reduce something gradually.
