pedetentous Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ped`e*ten"tous adjective
Etymology
L. pes, pedis, foot + tendere to stretch out: cf. L. tentim by degrees.
Definitions
  1. Proceeding step by step; advancing cautiously. R.
    That pedetentous pace and pedetentous mind in which it behooves the wise and virtuous improver to walk. Sydney Smith.

Webster 1913