# pedal

**Pronunciation:** /ˈpedl/ · PED-uhl

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** noun, verb

## Meaning

A lever that is operated with the foot to control a mechanism, such as the speed of a vehicle or the pitch of a musical instrument.

## Examples

- Press the brake pedal firmly to stop the car.
- The pianist's feet moved quickly between the sustain and soft pedals.
- She pushed the gas pedal to accelerate onto the highway.

## Synonyms

- lever — A general term for a bar used to exert pressure or lift.
- accelerator — Specifically refers to the pedal controlling a vehicle's speed.
- throttle — Often used for engines, controlling fuel flow to regulate speed.
- foot-lever — A more descriptive but less common term.

## Antonyms

- handle — A part operated by hand, the opposite of foot-operated.
- knob — A rounded part operated by hand, contrasting with a foot pedal.

## Common patterns

- pedal to the metal — To drive or move at the highest possible speed. — The race car driver had the pedal to the metal all the way to the finish line.
- pedal away — To ride a bicycle away from a place. — He saw the thief and immediately pedaled away on his bike.
- pedal through — To ride a bicycle through a place or situation. — They decided to pedal through the scenic countryside for the weekend.

## Collocations

- gas pedal — He floored the gas pedal to overtake the truck.
- brake pedal — She slammed on the brake pedal in panic.
- push the pedal — Push the pedal down to start the engine.
- release the pedal — Release the clutch pedal slowly when starting.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/pedaler

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