stairstep

or stair-step

[ stair-step ]
/ ˈstɛərˌstɛp /

noun

a step in a staircase.
stairsteps, stairs; a staircase.
a person or thing whose position, status, behavior, or the like suggests the shape or rise of the steps in a staircase: Their six children are stairsteps ranging from ages two to twelve.

verb (used without object), stair·stepped, stair·step·ping.

to occur or move in a regular pattern suggesting the steps of a staircase: housing units stairstepping down the hill to the edge of the lake.

adjective

suggesting or resembling the steps of a staircase, as in movement or shape: stairstep progress in improved appliance sales.

QUIZZES

CAN YOU FEEL THE WEAL WITH THIS WORD OF THE DAY QUIZ?

Did you collect all of last week’s words, but eftsoons forget what they mean? Don’t worry, we’re here to jog your memory. See how many words from the week of May 18 to 24 you can get right!
Question 1 of 7
weal
well-being, prosperity, or happiness.
the intervening time.
a somewhat prolonged, sharp, shrill cry, as of pain, fear, or surprise.
TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of stairstep

First recorded in 1825–35; stair + step

Words nearby stairstep

staircase phenomenon, stairhead, stairlift, stairmaster, stairs, stairstep, stairway, stairwell, stake, stake a claim, stake boat
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020