sure-footed

adjective

sure-foot·​ed ˈshu̇r-ˈfu̇-təd How to pronounce sure-footed (audio)
ˈshər-
: not liable to stumble, fall, or err
sure-footedly adverb
sure-footedness noun

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Archbishop Welby won praise for his sure-footed handling of the coronation ceremony. Mark Landler, New York Times, 11 May 2023 Instead, our confidence grew by the minute—mainly thanks to the MoonBike’s sure-footed stability. Eric Stafford, Car and Driver, 17 Apr. 2023 The Contagrip sole is well-balanced for sure-footed traction over both pavement and trails in wet and dry conditions. Men's Health, 21 Feb. 2023 Instead of the usual slow dance to close out the tableau, Madame Butterfly Sydney and President Shawn twirled across the floor with their sure-footed escorts, drawing cheers from the crowd. al, 17 Feb. 2023 Scotland’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which many viewed as more sure-footed than England’s, also fired up separatist sentiment. Jenny Gross, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sure-footed.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sure-footed was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near sure-footed

Cite this Entry

“Sure-footed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sure-footed. Accessed 5 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

sure-footed

adjective
sure-foot·​ed
ˈshu̇(ə)r-ˈfu̇t-əd
: not likely to stumble or fall
sure-footedly adverb
sure-footedness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on sure-footed

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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