Ratchet
Pronunciation: /ˈrætʃət/
Ratchet (noun)
- a tool with a wheel and teeth that allows movement in one direction only.
- a process where something increases or decreases in small steps.
Examples
- The mechanic used a ratchet to tighten the bolt.
- A ratchet is essential for assembling furniture.
Common collocations: use a ratchet, ratchet mechanism, ratchet effect, ratchet up, ratchet up
Ratchet (verb)
- to increase or decrease something gradually in small steps.
Examples
- They ratcheted up the pressure on the negotiations.
- The company plans to ratchet its production levels.