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doorstep

noun

door·​step ˈdȯr-ˌstep How to pronounce doorstep (audio)
: a step before an outer door
Phrases
on one's doorstep
: close at hand
especially : too close to be overlooked

Examples of doorstep in a Sentence

We sat on the doorstep. The police were at my doorstep.
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.
Add color and festivity to your doorstep with a decorative wreath. Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025 For over a decade, Amazon has been working to realize founder Jeff Bezos' vision of drones whizzing toothpaste, books and other goods to customers' doorsteps in 30 minutes or less. Annie Palmer, CNBC, 26 Nov. 2025 That would be seen as a colossal coup for the Kremlin, which for years has complained the alliance has expanded onto its doorstep. Alexander Smith, NBC news, 21 Nov. 2025 When the mother shows up on his doorstep unexpectedly, the two navigate their relationship to each other and to the world around them. Ana Osorno, Them., 21 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for doorstep

Word History

First Known Use

1767, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of doorstep was in 1767

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Doorstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doorstep. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

doorstep

noun
door·​step -ˌstep How to pronounce doorstep (audio)
: a step or series of steps before an outer door

More from Merriam-Webster on doorstep

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