step out

verb

stepped out; stepping out; steps out

intransitive verb

1
: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time
2
: to go or march at a vigorous or increased pace
3
: die
4
: to lead an active social life
5
: to be unfaithful
usually used with on
had been stepping out on his wife

Examples of step out in a Sentence

if she catches him stepping out on her, she'll divorce him without a moment's hesitation my greedy relatives are only being nice to me because they expect me to step out any time now
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.
So much of Alex’s adult life has been spent trying to step out of her father’s shadow. Max Gao, Variety, 22 Feb. 2025 In the 4 Nations Face-Off, Brady Tkachuk stepped out of his brother’s shadow. Fluto Shinzawa, The Athletic, 21 Feb. 2025 Star Power Hailey Bieber steps out for dinner with husband Justin Bieber and friends on Feb. 19 in Beverly Hills. Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 21 Feb. 2025 From your primary suite, step out onto the balcony overlooking the Charles, there are five additional bedrooms throughout the home. Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for step out

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of step out was circa 1533

Cite this Entry

“Step out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20out. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

step out

verb
: to go away from a place usually for a short distance and for a short time
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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