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pedelec

pedelec

8.7
A bicycle with a small electric motor that helps you pedal
  • noun
  • /ˈpɛdəlɛk/
  • Specialized
translation icon : bicicleta eléctrica
  • He decided to commute to work on his new pedelec to save energy and avoid traffic.

Examples

  • The pedelec made cycling uphill much easier for the group.

  • Many tourists rent a pedelec to explore the city without getting too tired.

  • I bought a new pedelec last week.

  • Many pedelecs are designed for urban commuting.

  • He decided to commute to work on his new pedelec to save energy and avoid traffic.

  • Many tourists rent a pedelec to explore the city without getting too tired.

  • The pedelec made cycling uphill much easier for the group.

Synonyms

motorbicycle
vspedelec
  • Archaic
4.1

A bicycle with a small engine to help pedaling

only supplies power that helps the rider's pedaling and not to drive alone
e-bike
vspedelec
  • Specialized
3.7

A bicycle with an electric motor that helps you pedal or moves without you pedalling

only supplies power that helps the rider's pedaling and not to drive alone
electronic bicycle
vspedelec
3.4

A bicycle with a small electric motor that helps you pedal or moves you without pedaling

only supplies power that helps the rider's pedaling and not to drive alone
electronic bike
vspedelec
3.5

A bicycle with a small electric motor that helps the rider pedal and can move without pedaling

only supplies power that helps the rider's pedaling and not to drive alone

Surface Forms

pedelec singular
pedelecs plural

Morphology

pedelec = pedal + electric + cycle (transparent) = pedal + electric + cycle

The form is a clear blend of 'pedal' + 'electric' (+ 'cycle'), so the meaning 'pedal-assisted electric bicycle' is directly inferable from the components.

Etymology

Pedelec joins pedal ('to push with your feet') and electric ('powered by electricity'). So a pedelec is a bike where the electric motor helps you pedal.