step out

verb

stepped out; stepping out; steps out

intransitive verb

1

: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time

2

: to go or march at a vigorous or increased pace

3

: die

4

: to lead an active social life

5

: to be unfaithful

—usually used with on

had been stepping out on his wife

Synonyms

• cheat
• philander
• screw around

Examples of step out in a Sentence

if she catches him stepping out on her, she'll divorce him without a moment's hesitation

my greedy relatives are only being nice to me because they expect me to step out any time now

Recent Examples on the Web

That can be really amazing for leaders to be able to step out of management activities and lean more into leadership. —Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025

Livvy Dunne brought casual boho energy with an edge to the Fanatics Fest after party at Zero Bond on Saturday night, stepping out in a tactile summer look anchored by the Converse x Isabel Marant Chuck 70 Wedge sneakers. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 22 June 2025

Here are some famous faces who stepped out of the spotlight and into the classroom to pursue a college degree. —Maria Yagoda, People.com, 21 June 2025

As soon as Roberts stepped out of the dugout, still yelling, third base umpire Tripp Gibson ejected him. —Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for step out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

step out

verb

: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time