Definition of "ratchet" []

• A mechanism consisting of a pawl that engages the sloping teeth of a wheel or bar, permitting motion in one direction only. (noun)
• The pawl, wheel, or bar of this mechanism. (noun)
• To cause to increase or decrease by increments: "Some companies . . . may make things worse if they seek to ratchet down their medical expenses by limiting benefits for psychological or psychiatric care” ( Newsweek). (verb-transitive)
• To increase or decrease by increments. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Maybe you believe government spending has a built in ratchet that prevents it from ever really coming down, no matter what party is in power."
• "In a moment, opening certain ratchet-holes in the wall of the carriage, he has slided these in at a suitable height above, and covered each with cushions and sleeping-rug."
• "But you just noted that it was more like a ratchet, which isn't a motor."