Pronunciation: [pˈɛsə͡ld] (IPA) 
The word "pestled" is spelled with a "t" after the "s" because of the way it is pronounced. The IPA phonetic transcription for "pestled" is /ˈpɛsəld/, indicating that the "s" sound is followed by a quick, sharp stop before the "l" sound. This is called a voiceless alveolar stop, represented by the symbol /t/. If the spelling were changed to "pezzled" without the "t," it would create confusion about the correct pronunciation of the word.
The term "pestled" is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "pestle." This verb is primarily used in the context of grinding, crushing, or pulverizing substances using a pestle. A pestle is a small tool with a rounded end that is typically made of wood, stone, or metal. It is used in conjunction with a mortar, which is a hard bowl.
When an object is described as "pestled," it means that it has undergone the action of being ground or crushed using a pestle. This action is often performed in a mortar, where the pestle is repeatedly pressed, twisted, or rotated against the substance in order to break it down into smaller particles or paste-like consistency. The term "pestled" can be used to describe various materials such as spices, herbs, seeds, or even chemicals, depending on the context.
For instance, one might say, "The ingredients were pestled together to create a flavorful spice blend" or "The pharmacist pestled the ingredients to create a fine powder for the medicine." In both examples, the process of grinding or pulverizing the substances using a pestle is conveyed by the term "pestled."
