I. ˈtred ə l noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle English tredel step of a stair, treadle, from Old English, step of a stair, from tredan to step, tread + -el, suffix used to denote a means or an instrument
1.
a. : a swiveling or lever device pressed by the foot to drive a machine actuated by foot power and usually operating a crank by means of a connecting rod
b. : one attached directly to the end of a crank (as in a bicycle) : pedal
c. : a device resembling such a treadle ; specifically : a lever actuated by a passing train to operate an alarm at a crossing or by a motor vehicle to operate a highway traffic control mechanism
2. : chalaza 1
II. verb
( treadled ; treadled ; treadling -d( ə )liŋ ; treadles )
intransitive verb
: to operate a treadle ; specifically : to proceed by pedaling a bicycle
transitive verb
1. : to operate (as a machine) by a treadle
2. : to tread over (clay)
a brickmaker, with boards or wooden shoes on his feet, treadles clay to pick out stones