Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for high-stepping. Search instead for side-stepping.

high-stepping

American  
[hahy-step-ing] / ˈhaɪˈstɛp ɪŋ /

adjective

  1. seeking unrestrained pleasure, as by frequenting night clubs, parties, etc.; leading a wild and fast life.

    a high-stepping young crowd.

  2. (of a horse) moving with the leg raised high.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of high-stepping

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That means "there was some side-stepping and resistance to Xi's personal command and directives," Loh added.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

"Whether one agrees with our solutions or not, none will accuse us of having chosen to evade our responsibilities by side-stepping the most controversial issues of our time," Mulroney said in his 1993 resignation address.

From BBC • Feb. 29, 2024

Despite side-stepping the new fighter jet competition Northrop said the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Indo-Pacific have compelled countries in these regions to ramp up their military spending.

From Reuters • Jul. 27, 2023

Any concern over a clunky start had disappeared by USC’s next drive, as the Trojans’ quarterback stood comfortably in the pocket, side-stepping rushers and firing passes all over the field.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 16, 2022

He headed for the store, nodding at the four men sitting outside on the porch, and side-stepping the white hens that were strolling about.

From "Song of Solomon" by Toni Morrison

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "high-stepping" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com