footstep

American  

[foot-step] / ˈfʊtˌstɛp /

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.

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idioms

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

footstep British  

/ 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

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footstep More Idioms  

1. see follow in someone's footsteps.

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Etymology

Origin of footstep

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

Example Sentences

But he said the appointment was a "significant footstep towards a new society where the Irish language is treated with dignity and equality".

From BBC • Oct. 28, 2025

The duo went 1-2 in the 200, with Coleman beating his older teammate for the first time, edging him by a footstep, 21.01 to 21.27.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2023

They can be triggered by pressure, such as a footstep on or nearby the unit.

From Washington Post • Jan. 31, 2023

Each footstep on the spongy ground seems to release fumes of decay into already fetid air.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2021

But today each footstep was a hammer pounding on her heart.

From "I Survived the Great Molasses Flood, 1919" by Lauren Tarshis

Related Words

• footprint