step in

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

Synonyms of step in

• visit
• run (over)
• stop (by or in)
• run in
• drop by
• drop in
• call

Examples of step in in a Sentence

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

Anima Kitchent’s new deal also mark a milestone step in the muscular growth of the Canary Islands’ animation industry which has expanded from one production house in 2018 to over 30 studios. —John Hopewell, Variety, 4 June 2026

Hitler was really on to something then the [f-----g] US has to step in and ruin it. —Matt Schooley, CBS News, 4 June 2026

Republicans in both states have pushed for wholesale changes to the court, but the Kansas proposal marks the most aggressive step in either state in decades. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026

Host Scott Detrow steps in for Mary Louise Kelly again this week. —NPR, 4 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for step in

• weapon

Kids Definition

step-in

noun

-ˌin

: an article of clothing (as a dress or shoes) that can be put on by being stepped into