underfoot

adverb

un·​der·​foot ˌən-dər-ˈfu̇t 

1

: under the foot especially against the ground

trampled the flowers underfoot

2

: below, at, or before one's feet

warm sand underfoot

3

: in the way

children always getting underfoot

Example Sentences

The ground was slippery underfoot.

We walked with dried leaves crunching underfoot.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Warner also has a contoured footbed to provide all-day arch support, while the non-slip outsole provides traction underfoot. —Theresa Holland, Travel + Leisure, 17 Apr. 2023

Outdoor rugs soften a concrete or stone patio, adding a welcoming layer of soft texture underfoot. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 2023

Shrapnel and bullet casings crunched underfoot. —The New Yorker, 12 Mar. 2022

There’s dirt underfoot. —Stephen Humphries, The Christian Science Monitor, 17 Feb. 2023

But the production’s moral landscape still shifts underfoot. —Helen Shaw, The New Yorker, 16 Mar. 2023

With Pipeline, the air will be underfoot. —Dewayne Bevil, Orlando Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2023

The damp soil feels spongy underfoot. —Tree Meinch, Discover Magazine, 15 Feb. 2023

How to Paint Your Home's Exterior Like a Pro Add Curb Appeal with a Rug Create a relaxing outdoor room by adding a rug underfoot. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Mar. 2023

See More

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

underfoot

adverb

un·​der·​foot -ˈfu̇t 

1

: under the feet

flowers trampled underfoot

2

: close about one's feet : in the way

a puppy always underfoot