Ratchet: meaning, definitions and examples

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ratchet

[ ˈrætʃɪt ]

^{Context #1}

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

Examples of usage

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

^{Context #2}

slang

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

Synonyms

ghetto, low-class, trashy

Examples of usage

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

^{Context #3}

slang

To adjust or manipulate in a mechanical way.

Synonyms

adjust, increase, tighten

Examples of usage

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

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 origin

The word 'ratchet' has a long history dating back to the 17th century. Originally used to describe a wrench or a tool that allows for incremental adjustment, the term has evolved over time to also be used as slang to describe a person with negative characteristics. The slang usage gained popularity in the early 2000s, particularly in hip-hop culture. It is important to note the dual meaning of the word depending on the context in which it is used.