Artist: Tyler Feiga/ Nommo Staff
Admit it. You may have heard it occasionally amongst your circle of friends. You’ve probably even used it yourself in a social or party setting. In fact, you probably have been asked to describe its meaning and have found yourself jumbling between definitions. The word “ratchet” is finding its way into the society as a term often used by many members of the Black community. More or less, the term has numerous meanings and implications, and more publicity is being spotlighted on the usage of the term. Often times we find ourselves using it very widely and loosely depending on the context in which it is being said. Most commonly, ratchet is confused between being a description of an action, a physical descriptor, or a state of being. However used, the term has a very versatile definition depending on the ways in which it is presented as a noun, adjective, or as a verb.
Recently, the term has surfaced itself as a new addition to the culture and common slang vernacular expressed by members of the Black community particularly. However, it is observed that it has been used to imply a less harmful notion of common lingo or either as a disapproving term to classify a person’s overall appearance. Unfortunately, the word has been socially constructed and this allows the term to be commonly misconstrued and utilized improperly. The idea is also widely known that “ratchet” can be viewed as a derogatory term that is just as offensive as words used to put down Black people in the era of slavery.
But where did such a term originate? How do we define such a complex, socially constructed word?
Let’s break it down ya’ll! Comment your definitions and/or opinions about the different ways in which the term has been socially defined. How we can use the word in a less derogatory manner and if so, how can it be used in a more positive, respectable manner? Be critical and analytical! Write your opinion in the comment section below. Remember, each one, teach one, to reach one!
- “Let’s Get Ratchet” : The Verb
- “She / He Looks Ratchet” : The Adjective
- “She / He is a Ratchet” : The Noun
-Ashley Joseph
Nommo Staff