Ratchet

Ratchet Definition

To increase or intensify something gradually and often irreversibly, especially in successive steps; commonly used in the phrase “ratchet up.”

Common in the phrasal expression “ratchet up,” especially in discussions of policy, costs, pressure, or conflict.

Ratchet is a verb.

Ratchet has medium GRE relevance.

Ratchet Synonyms

escalate , increase , intensify , raise

How To Use Ratchet In A Sentence

1. The administration ratcheted up tariffs after negotiations failed.
2. Each new regulation ratcheted up the costs of compliance.
3. The campaign’s increasingly hostile rhetoric ratcheted up tensions between the two parties.