step aside

verb

stepped aside; stepping aside; steps aside

intransitive verb

: to withdraw from one's position or occupation : step down

Synonyms of step aside

• leave
• retire (from)
• resign (from)
• quit
• step down (from)

Examples of step aside in a Sentence

a newscaster who knew when it was time to step aside from the anchor desk and let a younger person take over

the prime minister was compelled to step aside from his office when it was demonstrated that he had violated the public trust

Recent Examples on the Web

His mix of humility and strength, his willingness to step aside while also being at hand for help, is rare in leadership. —Anna Wintour, Vogue, 27 May 2026

Fletcher and Okada teased tension over the AEW International Championship belt before Okada willingly stepped aside. —Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026

Last month, Nikki Bella had to step aside from the Bella Twins' match at WrestleMania and was replaced by Paige, who made her big return to the WWE. —Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 23 May 2026

Let minimalism step aside to make way for colorful decor, patterns, and the antique-style pieces taking over design trends this year. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 23 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for step aside

• actinide
• aldehyde
• alkoxide
• alongside
• amplified
• arsenide
• beautified
• biocide
• bisulphide
• butoxide
• calcified
• ceramide