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noun

footstep

FUUTS-tehp

Footstep (noun) means the sound or mark made by a step while walking. Example: “She heard footsteps approaching in the hallway.”

noun
1
The sound or mark made by a step while walking.
"She heard footsteps approaching in the hallway."
2
A path or example set by someone earlier (figurative, usually "follow in someone's footsteps").
"He followed in his father's footsteps and became a doctor."

How to Use Footstep

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA single step while walking, or figuratively, following the path someone else took before you.

Common pairings
follow in someone's footsteps hear footsteps

Word Forms

footsteps plural

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She heard _____ approaching in the hallway.

Etymology

From Old English roots meaning "foot" and "step."

Origin: Old English

step pace stride footfall

Related Words

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “footstep” mean?

The word “footstep” means the sound or mark made by a step while walking. In plain terms, a single step while walking, or figuratively, following the path someone else took before you.

How do you pronounce “footstep”?

“Footstep” is pronounced FUUTS-tehp (/ˈfʊtstɛp/ in IPA).

How do you use “footstep” in a sentence?

Here is “footstep” used in a sentence: “She heard footsteps approaching in the hallway.”

What part of speech is “footstep”?

“Footstep” is a noun.

Where does the word “footstep” come from?

The word “footstep” comes from Old English. From Old English roots meaning "foot" and "step.".

How many meanings does “footstep” have?

“Footstep” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the sound or mark made by a step while walking.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial