Pedal /(pē"dal in def 1; 277)/

Pe·dal

Pedal

a.
  1. Of or pertaining to the foot, or to feet, literally or figuratively; specifically (Zool.), pertaining to the foot of a mollusk; as, the pedal ganglion. (Zool.)
  2. Of or pertaining to a pedal; having pedals.

Phrases & Compounds

Pedal curve
the curve or surface which is the locus of the feet of perpendiculars let fall from a fixed point upon the straight lines tangent to a given curve, or upon the planes tangent to a given surface.
Pedal note
the note which is held or sustained through an organ point. See Organ point, under Organ.
Pedal organ
an organ which has pedals or a range of keys moved by the feet; that portion of a full organ which is played with the feet.

Pedal

n.
  1. A lever or key acted on by the foot, as in the pianoforte to raise the dampers, or in the organ to open and close certain pipes; a treadle, as in a lathe or a bicycle. (Mech.)
  2. A pedal curve or surface. (Geom.)