IPA: /stɛp/
KK: /stɛp/
To move by lifting and placing one foot in front of the other, often in a specific way or direction.
She decided to step into the new role with confidence.
Past: stepped
Past Participle: stepped
A movement made by lifting one foot and putting it down in a different place, or a single stage in a process or series of actions.
She took a step forward to greet her friend.
To place or set down a foot in a specific position, often used in the context of moving or measuring distance.
She stepped onto the stage to give her speech.
Past: stepped
Past Participle: stepped
Step → The word originates from Old English 'stæpe', meaning a movement made by lifting the foot and setting it down in a new position. It refers to the action of moving by lifting and placing the foot.
Think of the Old English word 'stæpe' which describes the action of lifting your foot and placing it down — that's what a step is.