ratchet (redirected from ratcheting down)

ratchet

Mechanical device that transmits intermittent motion or permits a shaft to rotate in one direction but not in the opposite one. Reversible ratchets are used on socket wrench handles and are convenient for tightening or loosening bolts in positions where a complete revolution of a wrench handle is impossible. They are used in mechanical jacks to lock the jack rod after each successive lift.

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ratchet

1. a device in which a toothed rack or wheel is engaged by a pawl to permit motion in one direction only

2. the toothed rack or wheel forming part of such a device

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ratchet [′rach·ət]

(design engineering)

A wheel, usually toothed, operating with a catch or a pawl so as to rotate in only a single direction.