step 1 of 2

1
2
as in stage
an individual part of a process, series, or ranking the manual enumerates every step in the procedure for shutting down the assembly line

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in footstep
the mark or impression made by a foot steps in the sand leading into the water and back out again

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
as in path
steps plural the direction along which something or someone moves their steps led them through a long corridor

Synonyms & Similar Words

5

step

2 of 2

verb

1
2
3

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of step
Noun
On the front steps, insults daubed in spray paint were directed at both Mayor Karen Bass and President Trump. Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025 After the fire is fully contained, the next step is to control it. Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2025
Verb
Science and reason get stepped on by half-truths and conspiracy theories. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 11 June 2025 Boston catcher Connor Wong threw to third base, but shortstop Trevor Story stepped on the bag. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for step
Recent Examples of Synonyms for step
Noun
  • Shohei Ohtani is there as well, in the late stages of Tommy John surgery rehab that could be completed just after the All Star break.
    Tony Blengino, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Instead, Lloyd employed a bare stage and an ensemble of actors dressed all in black.
    Jenelle Riley, Variety, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • Little Simz follows in the footsteps of music icon Chaka Khan–who curated Meltdown in 2024–and takes the reins for the festival’s 30th anniversary edition.
    Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Sarah Snook, who played Shiv Roy on that HBO drama, was nominated (and went on to win!), following in the footsteps of her costars Jeremy Strong and Keiran Culkin.
    Melissa Locker, Time, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • As organizations grapple with rising burnout and disengagement, the path forward lies in creating environments rooted in clarity, autonomy, and meaning.
    Lisa Bodell, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
  • Along the way, there are a few intersections with trails that head up the sides of the canyon, but continue on the path heading west.
    Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2025
Noun
  • The storms are packing marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 June 2025
  • The crinoid has between 20 and 22 arms that can reach up to 5.5 inches long, according to the study.
    Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 13 June 2025
Verb
  • Right Now The indoor-outdoor design of the house allows residents to easily walk from the main living area to the covered patio and access the outdoor kitchen, alfresco dining area, or comfy lounges.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 17 June 2025
  • The seven-game series is tied at 2-2, and the winner of this crucial matchup could determine who walks away with the coveted Larry O'Brien Trophy.
    James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 June 2025
Verb
  • As the track blasted, Parker occasionally clapped along and danced in place.
    David Browne, Rolling Stone, 9 June 2025
  • The 11 Best Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Weekend John Wick killed so Ballerina could dance (and kill).
    Mike Flanagan, Vulture, 6 June 2025
Verb
  • At one point, the guide hurried her group past an object in the distance.
    Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 4 June 2025
  • The Democrats running for governor in 2026 hurried among caucus meetings, floor speeches and after-parties, telling their personal stories and talking up their bona fides for tackling some of California’s most entrenched problems, including housing affordability and the rising cost of living.
    Laura J. Nelson, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2025
Noun
  • In 2015, lawmakers in the state Assembly approved a measure that would have restricted the use of drones over private property without the owner’s permission.
    Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025
  • As a measure of how dormant the rivalry is, the two teams have not faced each other since 2008 — a year before Thomas Muller, who will leave Bayern this summer as their record appearance-maker with 751 (so far), had even made his competitive debut.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 7 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Step.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/step. Accessed 21 Jun. 2025.

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