step-in

1 of 2

noun

: an article of clothing put on by being stepped into: such as
a
: a shoe resembling but usually having a higher vamp than a pump and having concealed elastic to adjust the fit
b
: short panties for women
usually used in plural
step-in adjective

step in

2 of 2

verb

stepped in; stepping in; steps in

intransitive verb

1
a
: to intervene in an affair or dispute
b
: to act as a replacement
2
: to make a brief informal visit

Examples of step-in in a Sentence

Verb I just stepped in to say hi on my way to class. couldn't find anyone to step in for me so that I could take a break from my caregiving duties
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.
Noun
Its step-in design is easy to put on and take off and the snap closure only adds to the convenience. Jené Luciani Sena May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 20 June 2025 The newest version features a roomier step-in, a better heel fit, and the same signature cloud-like cushioning. Jennifer Vermeer, Travel + Leisure, 2 June 2025
Verb
The company has positioned AI agents as the next step in customer relationship management. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 What is normally a routine step in preparing for the upcoming flu season drew intense scrutiny after U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. abruptly fired the influential 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and handpicked replacements that include several vaccine skeptics. Lauran Neergaard, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for step-in

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1921, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Step-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step-in. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

step-in

noun
-ˌin
: an article of clothing (as a dress or shoes) that can be put on by being stepped into
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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