pawl Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a hinged catch that fits into a notch of a ratchet to move a wheel forward or prevent it from moving backward
detent; click; dog.

W. pawl a pole, a stake. Cf. Pole a stake.

(Mach.) 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. Written also paul, or pall.