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Definition of instep

instep

/ˈɪn.stɛp/
in · step
Plural:insteps
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instep Lexical Profile

instep Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The arched upper surface of the human foot between the toes and the ankle.

Example

"The soccer player struck the ball cleanly with his instep to send it curving into the net."

2

The part of a shoe, boot, or stocking that covers or supports the arched upper surface of the foot.

Example

"These leather boots are comfortable around the toes, but they feel a bit tight across the instep."

• Nearby Words

instantly
instate
instead
instep
instigate
instigation
instigative

Word Origin & Etymology

Dating back to Middle English as 'insteppe', the word is probably an alteration of an earlier compound meaning 'inward bend' (compare Old English 'instæpe' meaning 'entrance'), reshaped by folk etymology through association with 'step' and the foot.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Instep. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/instep
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