Ratchet definition

Ratchet

Topics Ratchet Definition

WordNet

(1) Mechanical device consisting of a toothed wheel or rack engaged with a pawl that permits it to move in only one direction

(2) Move by degrees in one direction only

"A ratcheting lopping tool"

WiktionaryText

A pawl, click or detent for holding or propelling a ratchet wheel, or ratch, etc.
A mechanism composed of a ratchet wheel, or ratch and pawl.
A ratchet wrench.

To cause to become incremented or decremented.
To increment or decrement.

It's time to ratchet up the intensity level here.