footwork

noun

foot·​work ˈfu̇t-ˌwərk How to pronounce footwork (audio)
1
: the activity of moving from place to place
the investigation entailed a lot of footwork
2
: the management of the feet (as in boxing)
also : the work done with them
3
: active and adroit maneuvering to achieve an end
fancy political footwork

Examples of footwork in a Sentence

The investigation required a lot of footwork. He used quick footwork to dodge his opponent. The tango involves some fancy footwork. He knows that getting enough votes for the proposal is going to require some fancy political footwork.
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.
Bevell also remarked on how the Dolphins’ footwork is different from other offenses and requires time to master. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 11 Mar. 2025 The crafty Magic forward often relies on his footwork to slice through opposing defenses and attack downhill to get near the basket. — Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2025 There’s also the possibility that when you get fatigued, your muscles may not be as able to fully support your knee, and your footwork can get sloppier, making the possibility of an awkward twist all the more likely. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 Interior linemen will battle in strength drills, showing off their power in the bench press and footwork drills. — David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for footwork

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of footwork was in 1859

Rhymes for footwork

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Cite this Entry

“Footwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/footwork. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

footwork

noun
foot·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce footwork (audio)
: the movement of the feet (as in boxing)

More from Merriam-Webster on footwork

Nglish: Translation of footwork for Spanish Speakers

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