Meaning & Definition of word "Pedal"

Pedal

/ˈpɛd.əl/

noun:

  • 1. A lever pushed by the foot to control a mechanism, such as in a bicycle or piano.
    • Example: He pressed the brake pedal to stop the car.
  • 2. A foot-operated part of a musical instrument, such as an organ.
    • Example: The organist skillfully used the pedal to add depth to the music.
  • 3. A part of a bicycle, which is moved by the rider's foot to propel the bike forward.
    • Example: She found it difficult to pedal uphill against the wind.

verb:

  • 1. To move by operating the pedals of a bicycle or similar device.
    • Example: I love to pedal through the park on weekends.
  • 2. To operate a pedal mechanism.
    • Example: He learned how to pedal the piano's sustain pedal properly.

Etymology

From Latin 'pes', meaning 'foot'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pedal to the metal:

To go full speed or to push to the limit.

pedal power:

Energy produced through pedaling, typically used in the context of cycling.

step on the pedal:

To press down on the pedal to accelerate or increase speed.

Related Words

bicycle:

A two-wheeled vehicle that is powered by pedaling.

treadle:

An operating lever or pedal that is moved by the foot.

accelerator:

A pedal in a vehicle that controls the speed.

Slang Meanings of pedal

Meaning: To pedal quickly or efficiently.

Example Sentence: She was really pedaling it on the way to work.

Meaning: To work hard to achieve something.

Example Sentence: He's been pedaling like crazy to meet the deadline.