lockstep

noun

lock·​step ˈläk-ˌstep How to pronounce lockstep (audio)
often attributive
1
: a mode of marching in step by a body of persons going one after another as closely as possible
2
: a standard method or procedure that is mindlessly adhered to or that minimizes individuality
Phrases
in lockstep
: in perfect or rigid often mindless conformity or unison
politicians marching in lockstep with the party line

Examples of lockstep in a Sentence

followed the lockstep that had been in his family for generations: prep school, Ivy League university, job on Wall Street
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.
These diverse skill sets and perspectives must operate in lockstep in order to foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. Vishaal Hariprasad, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025 This work has continued in lockstep with the Council to coordinate future transfers. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Today’s environment is calling for CMOs to lead not just the marketing of their organizations, but the growth of their respective businesses, often doing so in lockstep directly with the CEO. Billee Howard, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025 Once the public betas begin, both developer and public beta builds are usually updated more or less in lockstep, though the developer betas are still usually available slightly earlier. ArsTechnica, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lockstep

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lockstep was in 1787

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Cite this Entry

“Lockstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lockstep. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lockstep

noun
lock·​step -ˌstep How to pronounce lockstep (audio)
: a way of marching in step in which the marchers are very close one behind the other
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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