detent

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

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

From French détente, from Latin tendō (“to stretch”).

Almost all causes there are forces of detent, which operate by simply unlocking energy already stored up. — The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy, William James
The act of cutting a projection or guard, such as is usually found on the insides of locks, and the correspondent detent in the key. — Practical Mechanics for Boys, James Slough Zerbe

pawl, click, dog

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