Ratchet: meaning, definitions and examples

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ratchet

[ˈrætʃɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mechanical tools

A 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.

Synonyms

socket wrench, spanner, wrench.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ratchet	In slang, 'ratchet' can also describe something or someone considered to be lower quality or informal behavior, often with a negative connotation. The situation at the party got pretty ratchet as the night went on.
wrench	A wrench is a general term in American English for a tool used to provide grip in applying torque to turn objects like nuts and bolts. It's commonly used in households and various mechanical repairs. She reached for the wrench to fix the leaky faucet.
socket wrench	A socket wrench is a tool that uses different-sized sockets to fit various nuts and bolts. It is often used in automotive repairs or situations requiring a lot of torque. He grabbed a socket wrench to change the tire.
spanner	A spanner is a British term for what Americans usually call a wrench. It's used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying torque to turn objects, such as nuts and bolts. He used a spanner to tighten the pipes.

Examples of usage

The mechanic used a ratchet to tighten the bolts.
She heard the ratchet clicking as he turned the screw.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

slang

A coarse, ill-mannered person, especially a woman.

Synonyms

ghetto, low-class, trashy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ratchet	Slang term often used to describe someone or something that is considered loud, harsh, or uncouth. Typically has a negative connotation and is common in informal, youthful speech. Her behavior at the party was so ratchet. I can't believe he wore that ratchet outfit.
ghetto	Used to describe something of poor quality or low social status. It can be offensive because it originally referred to areas where marginalized groups were forced to live. It's commonly used informally and can unintentionally perpetuate stereotypes. That car looks so ghetto with its missing hubcaps. This place is really ghetto; it needs serious repairs.
trashy	Used to describe something that is considered tasteless or of poor quality. Commonly applied to appearance, behavior, or items, and carries a negative tone. Her outfit at the wedding was quite trashy. That TV show is so trashy but still entertaining.
low-class	Describes individuals or behaviors that are perceived as lacking in manners, education, or sophistication. Often used in a derogatory manner. His low-class behavior was embarrassing. Wearing pajamas to a formal event is really low-class.

Examples of usage

She's always causing drama, what a ratchet!
Don't be so ratchet, have some class.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

slang

To adjust or manipulate in a mechanical way.

Synonyms

adjust, increase, tighten.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ratchet	Use 'ratchet' when referring to a tool or mechanism that moves in one direction in steps, or when describing a situation that is progressively getting worse or more intense. The mechanic used a ratchet to tighten the bolt. The competition between the companies has ratcheted up over the past year.
tighten	Use 'tighten' when referring to making something more secure or strict, like fastening a screw or enforcing rules. Remember to tighten the screws on the chair. The new regulations aim to tighten security at airports.
adjust	Use 'adjust' when referring to making small changes to reach a desired state or improve something. She adjusted the volume on the radio. You might need to adjust your approach to complete the project.
increase	Use 'increase' when referring to making something larger in quantity, size, amount, or degree. The company plans to increase its workforce by 20% next year. There was a significant increase in sales during the holiday season.

Examples of usage

He ratcheted up the pressure to get the job done.
She ratcheted the volume up on the radio.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'ratchet' comes from the Old French word 'rachette,' which means to ‘to catch’ or ‘grasp’.
Originally used to describe a mechanism that allows movement in one direction only, it has evolved in modern usage.
The word has been used since the 18th century to describe a specific type of mechanical tool.

Technology

Ratchet mechanisms are widely used in tools like socket wrenches, allowing users to apply force without having to re-grip the tool after each turn.
Some modern vehicles use ratchet straps to secure cargo, showcasing their practical, versatile applications.
In robotics, a ratchet system might be employed to allow a component to move in one direction while preventing it from sliding back.

Pop Culture

The term has gained popularity in slang, often used to describe a certain style of partying or carefree behavior, particularly in music and dance scenes.
In the tech community, 'ratcheted up' refers to increasing intensity or difficulty, especially in gaming or coding challenges.
The phrase 'ratchet up' is common in discussions about policy changes or social movements that seek to elevate an issue.

Engineering

Ratchet mechanisms are essential in machinery, allowing for precise control and safety in various industries, particularly construction.
They serve as key components in many automated systems, helping machines perform tasks with accuracy and repeatability.
Understanding ratchet systems is crucial for engineers working with gear trains or systems that require unidirectional movement.

Language and Expression

Outside its mechanical meaning, 'ratchet' can describe situations where things are escalated in a continual loop, mostly used in informal discussions.
In literature, the term can metaphorically describe a character's gradual climb or destructive spiral, adding depth to narratives.
The versatility of the word allows it to blend into discussions about growth, conflict, or tightening situations in a figurative sense.

Translations

Translations of the word "ratchet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catraca

🇮🇳 रेक्टचेट

🇩🇪 Ratsche

🇮🇩 roda gigi

🇺🇦 трещітка

🇵🇱 grzechotka

🇯🇵 ラチェット

🇫🇷 cliquet

🇪🇸 trinquete

🇹🇷 mandal

🇰🇷 래칫

🇸🇦 زرجينة

🇨🇿 ráčna

🇸🇰 račňa

🇨🇳 棘轮

🇸🇮 raglja

🇮🇸 skratta

🇰🇿 тістік

🇬🇪 რაჩეტი

🇦🇿 raqet

🇲🇽 trinquete

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,735, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17732 callus
17733 deadlock
17734 definitively
17735 ratchet
17736 stitched
17737 invariance
17738 deliberative
...