pedal

6 definitions • 12 examples

a small part of a machine or object that is pushed down with the foot to operate or move the machine or object:

the brake/accelerator pedal

This sewing machine is operated by a foot pedal.

He stood up on the pedals of his bike to get extra power as he cycled up the hill.

a part on a piano or organ that you press with your foot :

He started playing the piano as soon as his legs were long enough to reach the pedals.

A typical church organ has four rows of keyboards and foot pedals under the bench.

operated by a pedal or pedals:

a pedal bike/boat/car

She emptied the ashtray into the pedal bin.

to push the pedals of a bicycle with your feet:

He struggled to pedal his bicycle up the hill.

We were pedalling like mad (= very fast) against the wind, but didn't seem to be getting anywhere.

to press piano or organ pedals in order to make particular musical sounds:

The eccentric musician pedals his grand piano in stockinged feet.

a small part of a machine or vehicle that you can press down with your foot to operate the machine or make the vehicle move:

bicycle pedals

You have to press down hard on the gas pedal to get this car up hills.