Available Definitions:
1) n. - A pivoted tongue, or sliding bolt, on one part of a machine, adapted to fall into notches, or interdental spaces, on another part, as a ratchet wheel, in such a manner as to permit motion in one direction and prevent it in the reverse, as in a windlass; a catch, click, or detent. See Illust . of Ratchet Wheel.
2) v. t. - To stop with a pawl; to drop the pawls off.