n.
- A mechanism consisting of a pawl that engages the sloping teeth of a wheel or bar, permitting motion in one direction only.
- The pawl, wheel, or bar of this mechanism.
v., -et·ed, -et·ing, -ets. v.tr.
To cause to increase or decrease by increments: "Some companies . . . may make things worse if they seek to ratchet down their medical expenses by limiting benefits for psychological or psychiatric care" (Newsweek).
v.intr.
To increase or decrease by increments.
[French rochet, from Old French rocquet, head of a lance (from the shape of the teeth), of Germanic origin.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
