Definition 1 of 2
Definition
Two foot-operated pedals in the cockpit, one for each foot, that control the airplane's rudder in flight and steer the nosewheel (or tailwheel) on the ground. Pressing the left pedal yaws the nose left; pressing the right pedal yaws the nose right. In most airplanes, the upper portion of each pedal also operates the corresponding main wheel brake when pressed with the toes.
Plain English
The two foot pedals a pilot uses to steer the airplane on the ground and to keep the nose pointed correctly in flight. Pushing the top of the pedal also applies the brake on that side.
Context Anchor
Seen during taxiing, takeoff, landing, and any cockpit discussion of foot controls.
Derivation
‘Rudder’ comes from the Old English rother, meaning a steering oar at the back of a boat. Early aircraft borrowed the word directly from sailing, because the airplane's rudder works the same way — a hinged surface at the tail that swings the nose left or right.
Why Pilots Care
Correct use prevents the airplane from drifting off the taxiway or runway and reduces reliance on brakes or the nosewheel for directional control.
Intuition Check
Rudder pedals are not just footrests, and they are not the same as car pedals. They are airplane control pedals used mainly for left-right directional control, with braking often added through the upper part of the pedals.
Example Sentence 1
During taxi, the student used gentle pressure on the rudder pedals to steer along the yellow centerline.
Example Sentence 2
Pushing the right rudder pedal turned the nose of the airplane to the right.