footwork

noun

foot·​work ˈfu̇t-ˌwərk 

1

: the activity of moving from place to place

the investigation entailed a lot of footwork

2

: the management of the feet (as in boxing)

also : the work done with them

3

: active and adroit maneuvering to achieve an end

fancy political footwork

Examples of footwork in a Sentence

The investigation required a lot of footwork.

He used quick footwork to dodge his opponent.

The tango involves some fancy footwork.

He knows that getting enough votes for the proposal is going to require some fancy political footwork.

Recent Examples on the Web

And the footwork — that dazzling, dynamic footwork — is on the level of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. —Josh Robbins, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2026

This 6-foot-4, 300-pounder plays with the athleticism of a tight end and has the footwork needed to mirror speed rushers. —Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026

The sessions will incorporate strategies with serves and returns, better shot placements, different shots, footwork, movement and communication. —Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026

Handy has seen Irving's imprint throughout the roster, from lending his ball-handling and finishing knowledge to Brandon Williams to helping Naji Marshall improve his footwork and balance. —Mike Curtis, Dallas Morning News, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for footwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

footwork

noun

foot·​work -ˌwərk 

: the movement of the feet (as in boxing)