footstep

Definition

The mark or impression left by a foot; a track.

Etymology

From Middle English fotstep, fotstappe, from Old English *fōtstepe, *fōtstæpe (attested only in derivative fōtstappel (“footstep”)), equivalent to foot + step. Cognate with Saterland Frisian Foutstappe (“footstep”), West Frisian fuotstap (“footstep”), Dutch voetstap (“footstep”).

Example Sentences

• "The child watched as his footsteps in the sand were washed away by the waves."
• "To walk the footsteps of greatness requires that you start at the bottom of a long stair."
• "follow in someone's footsteps"