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noun

footstep

FUUTS-tehp
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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Fill the Gap

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She heard _____ approaching in the hallway.

Etymology

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

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial