step-in

1 of 2

noun

: an article of clothing put on by being stepped into: such as
a
: a shoe resembling but usually having a higher vamp than a pump and having concealed elastic to adjust the fit
b
: short panties for women
usually used in plural
step-in adjective

step in

2 of 2

verb

stepped in; stepping in; steps in

intransitive verb

1
a
: to intervene in an affair or dispute
b
: to act as a replacement
2
: to make a brief informal visit

Examples of step-in in a Sentence

Verb I just stepped in to say hi on my way to class. couldn't find anyone to step in for me so that I could take a break from my caregiving duties
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
And players make step-in 3s at a notably higher rate than off the dribble or running off a screen. Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2024 With an overall geometry that leans into the carefree cycling of a beach cruiser and an easy-access step-in frame, the Electra Townie Go! Nathan Borchelt, Travel + Leisure, 16 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for step-in 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'step-in.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1921, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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

Dictionary Entries Near step-in

Cite this Entry

“Step-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step-in. Accessed 28 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

step-in

noun
-ˌin
: an article of clothing (as a dress or shoes) that can be put on by being stepped into
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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