Step

Definition

The term "step" refers to a movement made by lifting and setting down the foot, a stage in a process, or a physical structure like a stair.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɛp/
• Respelling: STEP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɛp/
• Respelling: STEP

Etymology

The word "step" originates from Old English "stæpe," meaning "a stride" or "movement of the foot," and is derived from Proto-Germanic "*stapiz," meaning "to tread or move." It is related to Dutch "stap" and German "Schritt."

Derivatives

• Stepwise (adjective/adverb)
• Step-up (noun/verb)
• Step-down (noun/verb)
• Footstep (noun)
• Overstep (verb)

Synonyms

• Stride
• Stage
• Movement

Antonyms

• Halt
• Stop
• Stagnation

Usage

The term "step" is versatile, used to describe physical movements ("He took a step forward"), stages in a process ("This is the next step in the project"), or parts of a structure ("The steps were slippery after the rain").

Related Terms

• Stride: A long step in walking or running.
• Progress: Forward movement toward a goal.
• Process: A series of actions taken to achieve something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A movement made by lifting and setting down the foot:
  • Example: "She took a cautious step across the slippery floor."
• A stage in a process:
  • Example: "This is the final step before completion."
• A part of a staircase:
  • Example: "He tripped on the last step of the staircase."

Verb

• To move by lifting and setting down the foot:
  • Example: "Please step carefully over the puddle."
• To take a particular action as part of a process:
  • Example: "She decided to step up and take responsibility."