Reel gear ratio question

[Reckless]

 Not sure if I understand how gear ratio works.
If you have a reel that states ratio at 5.3:1. Does this mean that for every 1 turn the spool turns 5.3? Example:8:1 would be a fast retrieve and 4:1 would be half as fast?   I think that is right but not sure.  

[Bucktail]

You got it.   It is the total amount of revolutions of the spool for one turn of the handle.

[Reckless]

Thanks!! When I am fishing from the boat I like a faster retrieve. 

[SouthPaw]

Faster retrieve means less power when working heavy fish or lead. Have to find the ratio that works for the type of fishing.