in step

1 of 2

phrase

1
: with each foot moving to the same time as the corresponding foot of others or in time to music
2
: in harmony or agreement

instep

2 of 2

noun

in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
1
: the arched middle portion of the human foot in front of the ankle joint
especially : its upper surface
2
: the part of a shoe or stocking that fits over the instep

Illustration of instep

Illustration of instep
  • instep 1

Examples of in step in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Müller scored her first NWSL goal in the 10th minute, receiving a ball from USWNT midfielder Olivia Moultrie near the upper-left corner of the penalty box and striking it first-time with her right instep. Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2026 In an animal print and with generous straps across the instep, the result feels much more like grown-up sophistication than any naivete. Alex Sales, Glamour, 29 Mar. 2026 To better accommodate a wider range of foot shapes right out of the box, Nordica also slightly increased the instep height. Jenny Wiegand, Outside, 23 Jan. 2026 The shoes feature a lightweight slip-on design that comfortably captures heel, arch and instep for all-day outdoor support. Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 13 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for in step

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of in step was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In step.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20step. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

instep

noun
in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
1
: the arched middle part of the human foot
2
: the part of a shoe or stocking that fits over the instep

Medical Definition

instep

noun
in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
: the arched middle portion of the human foot in front of the ankle joint
especially : its upper surface
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