treadles

Noun

treadle (plural treadles)

1. A foot-operated pedal or lever that generates motion.
   • To the rear end of the shaft B, is attached a band wheel, to the periphery of which is attached a strap J, which descends to a treadle, to be operated by the foot, but which requires no description.1846, editorial staff, “NAIL SWEDGING MACHINE”, in Scientific American, series 1, Volume 2, Issue 13, page 97
2. A device actuated by wheels passing over it.
   • As a car enters the parking area the front wheels pass over a treadle, causing a timber barrier to lift and allow the motorist to drive in and park. No money is required at this stage. As the car passes over a second treadle, just beyond the entrance, the barrier falls again.1962 July, “Talking of Trains: Automatic car park at Harlow”, in Modern Railways, pages 11–12
3. Chalaza.

See all 5 meanings of treadle