verb

ratchet

RAT-shiht

verb

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

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 notes

In plain EnglishA one-way mechanical gear, or (as a verb) to steadily increase something.

Common pairings

ratchet up ratchet wrench ratchet strap

more ratchet comparative, ratcheted past tense, ratchets plural, ratchets singular, most ratchet superlative

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Tensions between the two countries continued to _____ up.

From French rochet, "bobbin, spindle," ultimately from Italian rocchetto, "spool."

hatchet