steppingstone

American  

[step-ing-stohn] / ˈstɛp ɪŋˌstoʊn /

noun

1. a stone, or one of a line of stones, in shallow water, a marshy place, or the like, that is stepped on in crossing.

2. a stone for use in mounting or ascending.

3. any means or stage of advancement or improvement.

   She looked on the governorship as a steppingstone to the presidency.

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Etymology

Origin of steppingstone

Middle English word dating back to 1275–1325

Example Sentences

Some analysts said the Air represented a marketing win for the company and was also an important steppingstone for developing the architecture of a foldable iPhone, likely with two thin halves that open up to a large screen.

From The Wall Street Journal

The program is also a steppingstone for students who want to pursue more advanced medical training, which Levine said Ballad would help pay for.

From The Wall Street Journal

Like Muniz, Breidinger sees the truck series, the third tier of NASCAR’s national racing series, as a steppingstone to a seat in a Cup car.

From Los Angeles Times

“California is not a steppingstone to higher office.”

From Los Angeles Times

But if voters seem to be paying little attention to the race, most echoed Duncan’s call for a focus on fundamentals, expressing a strong desire the next governor be wholly invested in the job and not view it as a mere placeholder or steppingstone to higher office.

From Los Angeles Times