# pedestal

/ˈpɛdəstəɫ/ (US) · /pˈɛdɪstəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pedestal
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. architectural base

noun · CEFR B2

the solid base that a statue, vase, or column stands on.

For teachers: the base or foot of a column, statue, or other upright structure.

- The marble statue stood on a tall stone pedestal in the middle of the square.
- The conservators noted significant erosion at the base of the pedestal, threatening the stability of the bronze monument it supported.

### 3. cockpit control panel

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the central part of an airplane cockpit where the pilots find many controls.

For teachers: the central console in an aircraft cockpit, situated between the two pilots, housing engine and navigation controls.

- The pilot reached for the throttle on the pedestal during the takeoff roll.
- The flight crew monitored the engine parameters displayed on the central pedestal throughout the duration of the transatlantic crossing.

### 4. electronics/signal base

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the basic level of a signal when there is no information being sent.

For teachers: the constant level or bias of a signal upon which information is superimposed; the measured value in the absence of input.

- The technician adjusted the pedestal level to ensure the video signal was clear.
- An incorrect pedestal setting in the video signal can lead to crushed blacks and a loss of detail in the darker areas of the image.

### 5. to place on a base

verb · CEFR C2 · Formal

to put something on a base or to treat someone with great respect.

For teachers: to support something on a pedestal or to treat a person with excessive reverence.

- The designer decided to pedestal the new vase to make it the room's focus.
- The biographer was careful not to pedestal his subject, choosing instead to highlight both his triumphs and his moral failures.

## Examples

- The marble statue stands on a tall stone pedestal.
- The museum installed a new pedestal to elevate the sculpture so visitors could see the fine details.
- By placing the leader on a pedestal, the movement made it difficult for anyone to offer constructive criticism without appearing disloyal.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.