kick-downn.
/ˈkɪkdaʊn/, U.S. /ˈkɪkˌdaʊn/ A device that is operated by the foot; spec., on a motor vehicle, a device whereby one can change to a lower gear, esp. by pressing right down on the accelerator pedal in a vehicle with automatic transmission; also, the act of thus changing to a lower gear. Frequently attributive.
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society > occupation and work > equipment > machine > parts of machines > wheel > [noun] > cog or gear > which allows change of speed or direction
kick-down1909
splitter1963
society > occupation and work > equipment > machine > parts of machines > wheel > [noun] > cog or gear > which allows change of speed or direction > act of changing to lower gear
kick-down1958
1909 Cent. Dict. Suppl. Kick-down, the apparatus used in kicking down. See to kick down.
1954 New Automotive Encycl. 35e/1 A valve operated by a solenoid magnet, which is connected to a governor and kickdown switch.
1958 Times 15 July 7/6 The unduly light pressure required for the kick-down.
1958 Times 15 July 7/6 The ease with which the kick-down change occurred.
1959 Times 17 Mar. 14/7 The accelerator kick-down is an over-riding control that can be brought into play for maximum acceleration at any speed up to about 65 m.p.h.
1971 Daily Tel. 24 Mar. 11/4 The kick~down switch on the accelerator was unusually light and pleasant to use.
This entry has not yet been fully updated (first published 1976; most recently modified version published online March 2022).
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n.1909