step aside

verb

stepped aside; stepping aside; steps aside

intransitive verb

: to withdraw from one's position or occupation : step down

Examples of step aside in a Sentence

a newscaster who knew when it was time to step aside from the anchor desk and let a younger person take over the prime minister was compelled to step aside from his office when it was demonstrated that he had violated the public trust
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.
The logjam created by Markey refusing to step aside is causing consternation in the delegation, long plagued by internal divisions and jealousies. Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 19 July 2025 As is typical in such instances, Martinez did not give a reason for stepping aside. Jim Saunders, Sun Sentinel, 17 July 2025 Some market watchers have called out the company’s AI efforts as half-baked, and one research firm called for Tim Cook to step aside, despite a historically strong track record. Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 16 July 2025 Though Infantino encouraged Trump to step aside to let the team celebrate in the spotlight, the president stayed put. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for step aside

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of step aside was in 1949

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Step aside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/step%20aside. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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