footing

Definition

A ground for the foot; place for the foot to rest on; firm foundation to stand on.

Etymology

From Middle English fotyng; equivalent to foot + -ing.

Example Sentences

• "In ascents, every step gained is a footing and help to the next."
• "As soon, however, as he had obtained a footing at court, the charms of his manner […] made him a favorite."
• "While the California economy maintains its powerhouse status[…] the state’s most-powerful sectors[…]have struggled to keep their footing, pummeled by high interest rates, investor skittishness, labor strife and other turmoil."