lockstep

American  

[lok-step] / ˈlɒkˌstɛp /

noun

1. a way of marching in very close file, in which the leg of each person moves with and closely behind the corresponding leg of the person ahead.

2. a rigidly inflexible pattern or process.

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adjective

1. rigidly inflexible.

   a lockstep educational curriculum.

lockstep British  

/ ˈlɒkˌstɛp /

noun

1. a method of marching in step such that the men follow one another as closely as possible

2. a standard procedure that is closely, often mindlessly, followed

3. progressing at exactly the same speed and in the same direction as other people or things, esp as a matter of course rather than by choice

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Etymology

Origin of lockstep

First recorded in 1795–1805; lock ¹ + step

Example Sentences

Canadian miners tend to move in lockstep with precious metal prices.

From The Wall Street Journal

America’s pediatricians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were once in lockstep on how vaccines impact child health.

From Los Angeles Times

"Jersey implements sanctions in lockstep with the UK, and we work closely together to ensure they are enforced," it said.

From BBC

A handful of these funds have cut dividends because the yields on their loans are falling in lockstep with benchmark interest rates.

From The Wall Street Journal

"With the way batters are batting, and the way the game is evolving, are the preparation of our wickets in lockstep with that?" he told cricket.com.au.

From Barron's