damper pedal

noun

: a pedal that lifts the dampers from a piano's strings to allow a note to ring after its key is released

called also loud pedal, sustaining pedal, sustain pedal

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of damper pedal was in 1824

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near damper pedal

Cite this Entry

“Damper pedal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/damper%20pedal. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!