steppingstone

[step-ing-stohn]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of steppingstone¹

Middle English word dating back to 1275–1325

Example Sentences

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

“It’s just building my confidence back up and using today as a steppingstone to keep building and building,” said Malabuyo, who also recorded a 9.925 on floor.

From Los Angeles Times

The part-time work can also be a steppingstone toward a full-time position.

From Seattle Times