step-off

American  

[step-awf, -of] / ˈstɛpˌɔf, -ˌɒf /

noun

1. an abrupt drop, as from a shoreline into deep water.

---

Etymology

Origin of step-off

Noun use of verb phrase step off

Example Sentences

Once they do, the next step-off is an automatic balk unless a throw results in retiring a runner.

From Washington Post • Jan. 6, 2023

“Our transformation progress and financial performance in 2021 provide a strong step-off point to achieve our target of a return on tangible equity of 8% in 2022,” Sewing said, confirming a key profit target.

From Reuters • Jan. 27, 2022

A step-off is a term that doctors use to refer to a noticeable and sudden change in a person’s normal cognitive ability.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2017

There is so much power in third gear that all you have to do is turn the throttle: no clutchwork is required at all, even on tricky step-on, step-off combinations with no take-off lip.

From Time Magazine Archive

When we crossed the river and g-got to the step-off, Rita and D-Dic had went away and D-Doug and me st-started after 'em down the path toward B-Bays's.

From A Forest Hearth: A Romance of Indiana in the Thirties by Major, Charles