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Definition of step

step

/stɛp/
step

Plural:steps
•
Past Simple:stepped
•
Past Participle:stepped
•
Present Participle:stepping
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step Lexical Profile

step Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A single movement of lifting and setting down the foot when walking or running.

Example

"She took a cautious step forward into the dark room."


2

A measure or action taken, often as part of a series, to achieve a specific goal or progress toward a result.

Example

"Improving public transportation is a vital step toward reducing urban pollution."


3

A flat surface, especially one in a series, designed to support the foot when moving from one level to another.

Example

"He sat on the bottom step of the porch to tie his shoes."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To lift and set down the foot or feet in order to walk, run, or move to a new position.

Example

"Please step away from the edge of the platform for your safety."


2

To place the foot firmly, heavily, or accidentally onto a surface or object.

Example

"I accidentally stepped on a piece of broken glass while walking barefoot."


3

To perform a specific sequence of movements with the feet, often in dancing or marching.

Example

"The marching band stepped in perfect unison across the football field."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for step

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'steppan' (verb) and 'stepe' (noun), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'stappen' and German 'stapfen'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Step. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/step
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