verb
Uncommon
ratchet
RAT-shiht
Ratchet (verb) means to increase or escalate something, usually in a series of small steps, especially so it can't easily go back down. Example: “Tensions between the two countries continued to ratchet up.”
verb
1
To increase or escalate something, usually in a series of small steps, especially so it can't easily go back down.
"Tensions between the two countries continued to ratchet up."
noun
1
A tool or mechanism with a gear that allows movement in only one direction.
"He tightened the bolt using a ratchet wrench."
How to use ratchet
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA one-way mechanical gear, or (as a verb) to steadily increase something.
Common pairings
ratchet up
ratchet wrench
ratchet strap
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Word forms
- Plural
- ratchets
- Third person singular
- ratchets
- Past tense
- ratcheted
- Comparative
- more ratchet
- Superlative
- most ratchet
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Tensions between the two countries continued to _____ up.
Etymology
From French rochet, "bobbin, spindle," ultimately from Italian rocchetto, "spool."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for ratchet
See all rhymes for ratchet →Frequently asked questions
What does “ratchet” mean?
The word “ratchet” means to increase or escalate something, usually in a series of small steps, especially so it can't easily go back down. In plain terms, a one-way mechanical gear, or (as a verb) to steadily increase something.
How do you pronounce “ratchet”?
“Ratchet” is pronounced RAT-shiht (/ˈɹæt͡ʃɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “ratchet” in a sentence?
Here is “ratchet” used in a sentence: “Tensions between the two countries continued to ratchet up.”
What part of speech is “ratchet”?
Depending on how it is used, “ratchet” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “ratchet” come from?
The word “ratchet” comes from French. From French rochet, "bobbin, spindle," ultimately from Italian rocchetto, "spool.".
Is “ratchet” a common word?
“Ratchet” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ratchet” have?
“Ratchet” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to increase or escalate something, usually in a series of small steps, especially so it can't easily go back down.
