instep

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 instep 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.
Usimad Mesh Pointed-Toe Mule Heels My best guess for Kidman’s shoes are a brown pointed-toe heeled mule with a slim instep strap. Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 27 Sep. 2025 Denise’s were the shiny rich brown of horse chestnuts, with a leather braid over the instep. Rachel Kushner, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2025 The upper has plenty of space, which makes a huge difference for my high arches, high instep, and wide forefoot. Will Porter, Outside, 13 Sep. 2025 Gogolak is considered the chief figure behind football adoption of soccer-style place-kicking, approaching the ball at an angle instead of straight on and kicking with the instep instead of the toes. Walter Villa, Miami Herald, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for instep

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Instep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instep. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on instep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!