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

One was used in connection with the propelling lever, which was provided with a pawl to fit into the teeth of the reversed ratchet wheel on its forward movement.

From Edison, His Life and Inventions by Dyer, Frank Lewis

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

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

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.

A lever is used to operate the pinion, being inserted in a hub fast upon the same spindle that carries the pinion and the ratchet wheel.

From Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II by Rose, Joshua

There’s a mining shaft right over here—windlass with a ratchet wheel and a pawl.

From Stepsons of Light by Rhodes, Eugene Manlove