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.
Eberechi Eze hit the post moments later after some dazzling footwork, before Erling Haaland struck the decisive goal for City five minutes later. Mark Carey, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026 The Dolphins seemingly expected a run on offensive linemen in the first round, and got ahead of it by picking Proctor, who showed flashes of quick feet, smooth footwork, and a forceful punch at Alabama. Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2026 For Shamar Moore, a footwork instructor who was close friends with Flemister and Gonzalez, the foundation’s focus on mental health is a blessing for the Black community in particular. Laura Turbay, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026 The first parts of the reads and footwork are kind of second nature now. Hunter Bailey, Charlotte Observer, 20 Apr. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Footwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/footwork. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

footwork

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

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