Definition

1. Noun:
   • A pedal in a motor vehicle that operates the clutch: The clutch pedal is a foot-operated control that connects or disconnects the engine's power from the transmission system, allowing the driver to change gears smoothly.

Usage

• The clutch pedal is used to temporarily interrupt the power flow from the engine to the wheels, which is necessary for changing gears.
• It is typically the leftmost pedal in a manual transmission vehicle.

Examples

• Noun:
  • To start moving, you must press the clutch pedal, select first gear, and then slowly release the pedal while applying the accelerator.
  • If the clutch pedal feels stiff, it may indicate a problem with the clutch cable or hydraulic system.

Advanced Usage

• "To ride the clutch": To keep the clutch pedal partially depressed while driving, which causes excessive wear on the clutch mechanism.
  • Avoid riding the clutch in traffic; it's better to shift to neutral when stopped.

Variants and Related Words

• Clutch (noun): The complete assembly that engages and disengages the engine from the transmission, of which the clutch pedal is the control.
  • The car needs a new clutch.
• Clutch plate (noun): A key friction component within the clutch assembly.

Synonyms

• Clutch (in context): Often used informally to refer to the pedal itself.
  • Push the clutch in.

Related Phrases

• "To depress the clutch (pedal)": To press the clutch pedal down.
  • Depress the clutch fully before changing gear.
• "To release the clutch (pedal)": To let the clutch pedal rise up to engage the engine power.
  • Release the clutch smoothly to avoid stalling the engine.

Noun

1. a pedal or lever that engages or disengages a rotating shaft and a driving mechanism
   • he smoothely released the clutch with one foot and stepped on the gas with the other