pawl

[pawl] /pɔl/
noun
1.
a pivoted bar adapted to engage with the teeth of a ratchet wheel or the like so as to prevent movement or to impart motion.
verb (used with object)
2.
to check or hold with a pawl.
Origin
1620-30; < Dutch pal ratchet
Examples from the web for pawl
  • The pawl is a safety device which, when engaged, allows the basket to be raised but not lowered.
  • Incorrect steel was used on the latch connector locking pawl.
  • As a result, the pawl can crack allowing the seat base to detach from the vehicle's latch anchors during a severe crash.
  • When engaged, the pawl is elf-locking due to its pivot location.
British Dictionary definitions for pawl

pawl

/pɔːl/
noun
1.
a pivoted lever shaped to engage with a ratchet wheel to prevent motion in a particular direction
Word Origin
C17: perhaps from Dutch pal pawl
Word Origin and History for pawl
n.

"bar preventing a capstan from recoiling" (nautical) 1620s, of unknown origin; perhaps from French pal "stake" [OED] or épaule "shoulder" [Klein].