step out

verb

stepped out; stepping out; steps out

intransitive verb

1

: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time

2

: to go or march at a vigorous or increased pace

3

: die

4

: to lead an active social life

5

: to be unfaithful

—usually used with on

had been stepping out on his wife

Synonyms

• cheat
• philander
• screw around

Examples of step out in a Sentence

if she catches him stepping out on her, she'll divorce him without a moment's hesitation

my greedy relatives are only being nice to me because they expect me to step out any time now

Recent Examples on the Web

Earlier in May, Michele stepped out at the 2024 Met Gala, putting her glamorous pregnancy style on display in a bright blue gown from Rodarte featuring a tulle cape. —Charlotte Phillipp, Peoplemag, 1 June 2024

Some of our favorite stars with famous moms, such as Liza Minnelli or Kate Hudson, have established successful careers to the point of stepping out of their mothers' shadows. —Aja Hoggatt, EW.com, 29 May 2024

Alejo, 43, touches her face up with makeup on a Tuesday morning, and steps out of her tiny apartment on the fringes of Mexico City. —Megan Janetsky, Fortune, 27 May 2024

Lock in your short haircut with a diffuser and step out for some fun in the sun! Summertime-Fine Pixie Continuing on the short hair trend with a pixie cut– the cousin of the curly Brittany cut. —Celeste Polanco, Essence, 20 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

step out

verb

: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time