lockstep

noun

lock·​step ˈläk-ˌstep 

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

Synonyms

• routine
• grind

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

Customers who feel included and that their journey and yours are in lockstep are far more likely to trust in the process and to stay invested. —Jeppe Rindom, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

While Delaney’s speech appears to represent a majority opinion by bar advocates, there is evidence that the contract workers are not all in lockstep. —Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 31 July 2025

Two Sides Of The Compliance Automation Coin True compliance automation in the enterprise requires two things working in lockstep: 1. —Padraic O'Reilly, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025

China’s promotion of its open AI models fits in lockstep with its aim of serving as the developing world’s leading provider of digital infrastructure through, for instance, the Digital Silk Road initiative. —Owen J. Daniels, Foreign Affairs, 25 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lockstep

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

Kids Definition

lockstep

noun

lock·​step -ˌstep 

: a way of marching in step in which the marchers are very close one behind the other