The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Pedetentous \Ped`e*ten"tous\, a. [L. pes, pedis, foot + tendere
   to stretch out: cf. L. tentim by degrees.]
   Proceeding step by step; advancing cautiously. [R.]
   [1913 Webster]

         That pedetentous pace and pedetentous mind in which it
         behooves the wise and virtuous improver to walk.
                                                  --Sydney
                                                  Smith.
   [1913 Webster] Pedi