pedetentous

English

Etymology

From Latin pes, pedis (“foot”) + tendō (“to stretch out”). Compare Latin tentim (“by degrees”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˌpɛdɪˈtɛntəs/

Adjective

pedetentous (not comparable)

1. (obsolete) Proceeding step by step; advancing cautiously.
   • 1838, Sydney Smith, Lord John Russell:

     that pedetentous pace and pedetentous mind in which it behooves the wise and virtuous improver to walk

References

• “pedetentous”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.