footplate

IPA: fˈʊtpɫeɪt

(rail transport) The metal plate which forms the base platform of a steam locomotive and supports the boiler and the driver's cab, particularly in the United Kingdom.
The engineer's cab in any kind of train.
(anatomy) The flat portion at the base of the stapes; pedicel.
The part of a roller skate that attaches to the boot.
(construction) A timber in a wood frame that distributes a concentrated load.
(auto parts) A platform on which the driver's foot rests but which, unlike a pedal, has no effect.

Examples of "footplate" in Sentences

WIRED Thick footplate offers springy sensation on ascents.
I fussed around, making a few last-minute adjustments to the footplate.
I had wedged a block of wood under the footplate so I could hold a steady course, but it kept shifting under the pressure of my foot.
As my boat drifted out between the lines of moored yachts, I strapped my feet onto the footplate and grasped the textured rubber grips of the oars.
While the boot offers great heel and ankle support, the footplate feels too flexible and the upper too flimsy for extended trips with a 40-pound pack.
The 120 year-old Footplate steam locomotive is named for its large metal footplate, which is full width of the locomotive and extends all the way from the front buffer beam to the back buffer beam.
But the thick footplate had one unforeseen advantage: On uphill hauls the stiffness actually lends a spring-like feeling, flexing just enough to give you the impression that you're being propelled upwards.