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 

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

• instep 1

Examples of in step in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Phrase

Exemptions for data centers are in step with longstanding exemptions for manufacturers, said Diorio, who plans to testify at Monday’s committee hearing. — Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 July 2026

Right in step with the dopamine decor and whimsical design trends, this cute bistro set comes in bright yellow, mint green, and bold red. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026

Noun

Smashed with the instep of Mbappe’s right foot, the ball arced viciously into the top-right corner, beyond Bounou’s despairing dive. — Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 9 July 2026

The thin strap across the foot’s instep and the tiny heel give the shoes a delicate and refined feel. — Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for in step

• bicep
• doorstep
• footstep
• instep
• misstep
• sidestep
• cep
• hep
• pep
• prep
• rep
• sep

Kids Definition

instep

noun

in·​step ˈin-ˌstep 

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 

: the arched middle portion of the human foot in front of the ankle joint

especially : its upper surface