A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
Something overly artful or artificial.
A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
A similar device to prevent motion in other mechanisms besides ratchets.
A pivoted catch designed to fall into a notch on a ratchet wheel so as to allow movement in only one direction (e.g. on a windlass or in a clock mechanism), or alternatively to move the wheel in one direction.
To stop with a pawl.