'Detent' definitions:

Definition of 'detent'

(from WordNet)
noun
A hinged catch that fits into a notch of a ratchet to move a wheel forward or prevent it from moving backward [syn: pawl, detent, click, dog]

Definition of 'Detent'

From: GCIDE
  • Detent \De*tent"\, n. [F. d['e]tente, fr. d['e]tendre to unbend, relax; pref. d['e]- (L. dis- or de) + tendre to stretch. See Distend.] (Mech.) That which locks or unlocks a movement; a catch, pawl, or dog; especially, in clockwork, the catch which locks and unlocks the wheelwork in striking. [1913 Webster]

Words containing 'Detent'