footprint

noun

foot·​print ˈfu̇t-ˌprint 

1

: an impression of the foot on a surface

2

a

: the area on a surface covered by something

a tire with a wide footprint

the footprint of a laser beam

b

: range of operation (as of a service)

a global footprint

3

: a marked effect, impression, or impact

left a footprint in the field of research

4

: something that identifies

a genetic footprint

Synonyms

• footstep

Examples of footprint in a Sentence

The child left her tiny footprints in the snow.

He walked into the kitchen with his boots on, making muddy footprints on the floor.

The new model has a smaller footprint than the older model.

Recent Examples on the Web

The opening comes as the wildly popular convenience store chain, known for its clean restrooms, extensive Southern food offerings, and huge footprint, continues its spread across the South. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 28 Oct. 2025

True Religion has been gaining momentum and expanding its footprint in new categories since celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 28 Oct. 2025

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but the move reflects Ykone’s ambition to consolidate its European footprint and reinforce its top position in the luxury and high-end influence market. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025

Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) has taken a major step in expanding its global nuclear energy footprint. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 27 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing footprint

• carbon footprint

Rhymes for footprint

• blueprint
• imprint
• misprint
• newsprint
• nonprint
• preprint
• reprint
• clint
• dint
• glint
• hint
• lint

Kids Definition

footprint

noun

foot·​print ˈfu̇t-ˌprint 

: a track left by the foot

Medical Definition

footprint

noun

foot·​print ˈfu̇t-ˌprint 

: an impression of the foot on a surface