footstep

noun

foot·​step ˈfu̇t-ˌstep 

1

: the mark of the foot : track

2

a

: tread

b

: distance covered by a step : pace

3

: a step on which to ascend or descend

4

: a way of life, conduct, or action

followed in his father's footsteps

Synonyms

• footmark
• footprint
• step
• trace
• vestige

Examples of footstep in a Sentence

She slowly took one footstep toward the frightened animal.

It's five footsteps from the bedroom to the bathroom.

Recent Examples on the Web

As a child, Pierre dreamed of becoming a professional sprinter, wanting to follow in the footsteps of former Olympic gold medalist Maurice Greene. —Max Gao, IndieWire, 11 Sep. 2024

Following in the footsteps of his famous family, Julez is making a name for himself in the fashion world. —Ty Gaskins, WWD, 11 Sep. 2024

Following in the footsteps of a relative is par for the course in golf, where kids are often introduced to the game by a parent or grandparent. —Mike Dojc, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024

The storied ship provides a unique stay for travelers who want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities and historical figures. —Sunset Magazine, 10 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

footstep

noun

foot·​step -ˌstep 

1

a

: a step of the foot

b

: the distance covered by a step : pace

2

a

: the mark of the foot

b

: the sound of a footstep

3

: a step on which to go up or down