1. mechanical devices with toothed wheels or bars that allow motion in only one direction

1. moves or advances by degrees, especially in one direction only
2. tightens or loosens something using a ratchet tool

Examples

• The mechanic used several ratchets to remove the bolts.
• She ratchets up the pressure on her opponents during negotiations.
• The tension in the room ratchets higher with each accusation.
• He ratchets the wrench to tighten the pipe fitting.
• The parking brake uses ratchets to prevent the car from rolling.
• Political rhetoric often ratchets upward during election season.
• The socket ratchets make the job much easier than regular wrenches.