online medical dictionary | definition of pedal

1. <marine biology, zoology> Of or pertaining to the foot, or to feet, literally or figuratively; specifically, pertaining to the foot of a mollusk; as, the pedal ganglion.

2. Of or pertaining to a pedal; having pedals.

<geometry> Pedal curve or surface, 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.

Origin: L. Pedalis, fr. Pes, pedis, foot. See Foot, and cf. Pew.

1. <mechanics> 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.

2. <geometry> A pedal curve or surface.

Origin: Cf. F. Pedale, It. Pedale. See Pedal.

(01 Mar 1998)