Pawl

/pɔːl/ · noun

Meaning

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..

Definitions by Sense

1. 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.
2. A similar device to prevent motion in other mechanisms besides ratchets.
3. (transitive) To stop with a pawl.
4. Alternative form of paul (“kind of tent”).

Example Sentences

A pawl is a sort of catch that fits into a ratchet wheel and pushes it around, or it may be used as a catch to prevent the backward motion of a windlass or the wheel on a derrick.

The nails in the rim of the wheel went ratcheting over the leather pawl and the wheel slowed and came to a stop and the woman turned to the crowd and smiled.

Synonyms for pawl

Antonyms for pawl

Related Words

Word Forms

• pawls
• pall
• pawling
• pawled

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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