pedal

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pedal.
1. In harmony, a note sustained below changing harmonies and called a pedal-point or pedal-bass. If sustained but not in the bass, it is an inverted pedal.

2. Lowest, i.e. fundamental, note of harmonic series, esp. in brass instrs.

3. Lever operated by the foot, as in hp., hpd., kettledrum, org., and pf.

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