footsteps

Noun

footstep (plural footsteps)

1. The mark or impression left by a foot; a track.
   • The child watched as his footsteps in the sand were washed away by the waves.

   Synonyms:

   footprint, step, track

2. (broadly, figuratively, sometimes) The indications or waypoints of a course or direction taken.
   • To walk the footsteps of greatness requires that you start at the bottom of a long stair.

   Synonyms:

   point, path, step, trail

3. The sound made by walking, running etc.
   • The footsteps of the students echoed in the empty hall.

   Synonyms:

   footfall, plod, step, tread

4. A step, as in a stair.
   • The garden path had a small footstep down to the main walkway.

   Synonyms:

   riser, step

5. The distance between one foot and the next when walking; a pace.
   • Mere footsteps away from the victim lay the murder weapon.

   Synonyms:

   pace, step, stride

6. The act of taking a step.
   • Take one more footstep towards me, and I'll make you sorry!

   Synonyms:

   pace, plod, step, stride, tread

See all 7 meanings of footstep