Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

lockstep

/ˈlɒkstɛp/

Word Rarity Very rare

Frequency: Zipf frequency 2.28 in modern English

Syllables: lock-step
IPA: /ˈlɒkstɛp/

16

Scrabble Score

8

Letters

2

Syllables

8

Unique Chars

Meaning

noun

A step whereby the toe of one man is brought very close to the heel of the man in front.

Uncountable

noun

Close connection, unison, rigid synchronization.

Uncountable

noun

An inflexible, rigid or stifling pattern.

Uncountable

adj

In close connection, in unison, synchronized.

Example Sentences

"The CIA's analysts learned to march in lockstep, conforming to conventional wisdom."
"But what [the Founding Fathers] weren’t counting on was lockstep partisanship, which translates today into a pro-Trump, pro-MAGA congressional majority that is likely to reinforce the president’s agenda, at least until the 2026 midterm elections."
"With both official university policies lock-step in favor of military recruitment, the next move is up to the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations."

Etymology

From lock + step.

Regional Pronunciation

British English: /ˈlɒkstɛp/

Usage

Uncountable

Inflected Forms

locksteps (plural) lock-step (alternative) lock step (alternative)

Questions

How do you pronounce lockstep?: The recorded pronunciation is /ˈlɒkstɛp/.
What does lockstep mean?: A step whereby the toe of one man is brought very close to the heel of the man in front.
Where does lockstep come from?: From lock + step.

How to pronounce lockstep

Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “lockstep”.
Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling (/ˈlɒkstɛp/) so you know which sounds to aim for.
Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “lockstep”.
Repeat and practice — Say “lockstep” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.