footstep

[foot-step]

noun

1. the setting down of a foot, or the sound so produced; footfall; tread.

2. the distance covered by a step in walking; pace.

3. a footprint.

4. a step by which to ascend or descend.

footstep

/ ˈfʊtˌstɛp /

noun

1. the action of taking a step in walking

2. the sound made by stepping or walking

3. the distance covered with a step; pace

4. a footmark

5. a single stair; step

6. to continue the tradition or example of another

Word History and Origins

Origin of footstep¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, footstep is from Middle English foote steppe. See foot, step

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. follow in someone's footsteps, to succeed or imitate another person.

see follow in someone's footsteps.

Example Sentences

Hatton paved the way for so many to follow in his footsteps.

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But the couple say they fell in love with it and want to give that feeling to other couples who want to follow in their footsteps.

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I need to spend time walking in locals’ footsteps and listening to their preoccupations.

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For anyone who wants to follow in Amelia's footsteps, and maybe end up interviewing musicians, actors and comedians one day, she has some advice.

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"In the 200-year history of the railway, all the famous trains have been named - from the Rocket to the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard, and this follows in the footsteps of that."

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Related Words

• footprint