footplate

== English == === Etymology === From foot +‎ plate. === Pronunciation === === Noun === footplate (plural footplates) (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. (automotive) A platform on which the driver's foot rests but which, unlike a pedal, has no effect. ==== Derived terms ==== footplateman, footplate man === Verb === footplate (third-person singular simple present footplates, present participle footplating, simple past and past participle footplated) (rail transport) To travel (or work) on the footplate of a locomotive.