ratchet

Definition

A pawl, click, or detent for holding or propelling a ratchet wheel, or ratch, etc.

Etymology

From French rochet (“bobbin, spindle, ratchet”), from Italian rocchetto (“spool, ratchet”).

Example Sentences

• "The threat of terrorism to the British lies in the overreaction to it of British governments. Each one in turn clicks up the ratchet of surveillance, intrusion and security. Each one diminishes liberty."
• "Ahead of them a group of mandibulous sales men had set up their combustion cups and incendiary ratchets to demonstrate their wares to whatever officers might come by."