Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
sidestep [sahyd-step] ExamplesWord Origin verb (used without object), side·stepped, side·step·ping.
- to step to one side.
- to evade or avoid a decision, problem, or the like.
verb (used with object), side·stepped, side·step·ping.
- to avoid or dodge by stepping aside.
- to evade or avoid (a decision, problem, or the like).
Origin of sidestep An Americanism dating back to 1900–05 Related formsside·step·per, noun Examples from the Web for side-stepping Contemporary Examples of side-stepping
So the triumph of this week’s ruling was side-stepping the Rabbinate altogether and getting the civil courts to settle the issue.
A Toast To Gay Divorce In Israel
Brian Schaefer
December 6, 2012
Historical Examples of side-stepping
Lennon barely saved himself by the quickest of side-stepping.
Robert Ames Bennet
“I just came from the camp,” said Tom, side-stepping the real object of his trip.
Percy K. Fitzhugh
“I be willing to try,” said Uncle, perceiving that he had room for side-stepping.
Horace Annesley Vachell
So I just wanted to say there’s no side-stepping, no four-flushing, at this end of the trip!
Arthur Stringer
He can evade it by side-stepping, by jumping over, or by dragging another fellow into it.
Boy Scouts of America
British Dictionary definitions for side-stepping sidestep verb -steps, -stepping or -stepped
- to step aside from or out of the way of (something)
- (tr) to dodge or circumvent
noun side step
- a movement to one side, as in dancing, boxing, etc
Derived Formssidestepper, noun Word Origin and History for side-stepping sidestep n.
also side-step, 1757, “a stepping to the side” (originally in military drill), from side (adj.) + step (n.). The verb is recorded from 1895; the figurative sense is attested from 1900.