sostenuto pedal

noun

: a pedal on some pianos that lifts the dampers from only the strings whose keys are being held down at the moment it is pressed so as to allow those notes to ring while subsequent notes do not

called also sustaining pedal, sostenente pedal

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dicitonary 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