in step

1 of 2

phrase

1
: with each foot moving to the same time as the corresponding foot of others or in time to music
2
: in harmony or agreement

instep

2 of 2

noun

in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
1
: the arched middle portion of the human foot in front of the ankle joint
especially : its upper surface
2
: the part of a shoe or stocking that fits over the instep

Illustration of instep

Illustration of instep
  • instep 1

Examples of in step in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Phrase
Then, Guardiola adopted a comparatively more direct approach, in step with the Premier League’s shift towards man-to-man marking, which demands physical prowess and, at times, a direct style of play. — Sam Lee, New York Times, 30 July 2026 Exemptions for data centers are in step with longstanding exemptions for manufacturers, said Diorio, who plans to testify at Monday’s committee hearing. — Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 July 2026
Noun
Two skinny straps crossed the toes, while another ran diagonally over the instep and met a narrow strap just below the ankle before wrapping around the heel. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 30 July 2026 Smashed with the instep of Mbappe’s right foot, the ball arced viciously into the top-right corner, beyond Bounou’s despairing dive. — Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for in step

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of in step was in the 15th century

Rhymes for in step

See All Rhymes for in step

Browse Nearby Words

instellation
in step
instep
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In step.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20step. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

instep

noun
in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
1
: the arched middle part of the human foot
2
: the part of a shoe or stocking that fits over the instep

Medical Definition

instep

noun
in·​step ˈin-ˌstep How to pronounce instep (audio)
: the arched middle portion of the human foot in front of the ankle joint
especially : its upper surface
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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