ratchet wheel

American  

noun

1. a wheel, with teeth on the edge, into which a pawl drops or catches, as to prevent reversal of motion or convert reciprocating motion into rotatory motion.

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Etymology

Origin of ratchet wheel

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ratchet wheel

It is self-evident that a narrow pallet requires a wide tooth, and a wide pallet a narrow or thin tooth wheel; in the ratchet wheel we have a metal point passing over a jeweled plane.

From An Analysis of the Lever Escapement by Playtner, H. R.

Every ferry passenger is familiar with the rapid tinkling of the ratchet wheel that warps the landing stage up to the level of the boat's deck.

From Mince Pie by Morley, Christopher

The ratchet wheel and pawl shown in fig.

From Gas and Oil Engines, Simply Explained An Elementary Instruction Book for Amateurs and Engine Attendants by Runciman, Walter C.

We think a ratchet wheel should not be employed with equidistant pallets.

From An Analysis of the Lever Escapement by Playtner, H. R.

The running board was rotten and full of holes; the brake at the north end of the car would not hold on account of having a loose ratchet wheel.

From Railroad Accidents Their Cause and Prevention by Richards, R. C.