Which term denotes sustained or held notes, often associated with pedal use?

The term that denotes sustained or held notes, often associated with pedal use, is "sostenuto." This term specifically refers to a way of playing notes in a smooth and sustained manner without interruption, typically allowing for a continuity in sound. In piano performance, the sostenuto pedal allows the musician to sustain certain notes while still being able to play other notes staccato or without sustaining them. This technique creates rich textures and helps in achieving a full-bodied sound, particularly in more complex compositions.

The other terms, while related to expressions of sound and articulation in music, do not effectively encapsulate the concept of sustained notes with pedal usage. "Legato" describes smooth, connected notes but does not inherently involve the use of a sustain pedal. "Staccato" refers to brief, detached notes and is practically the opposite of sustained playing. "Forte" simply indicates a loud dynamic level without any direct reference to sustain or pedal techniques. Thus, sostenuto is the most fitting terminology for the description provided in the question.