goose-step

1 of 2

verb

goose-stepped; goose-stepping; goose-steps

intransitive verb

1
: to march in a goose step
2
: to practice an unthinking conformity

goose step

2 of 2

noun

: a straight-legged stiff-kneed step used by troops of some armies when passing in review

Examples of goose-step in a Sentence

Verb the new president has everyone goose-stepping to her every whim lest they provoke her wrath

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1879, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of goose-step was in 1806

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Cite this Entry

“Goose-step.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goose-step. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

goose step

noun
: a straight-legged stiff-kneed step used by troops of some armies on parade
goose-step
ˈgüs-ˈstep
verb
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