even-steven

or e·ven-Ste·ven

[ ee-vuhn-stee-vuhn ]

adjective

, Informal.

1. having no balance of debt on either side; even in the setting of accounts.
2. having an equal chance or score; tied.

Word History and Origins

Origin of even-steven¹

First recorded in 1865–70; rhyming compound based on even ¹

Idioms and Phrases

Exactly equal; also, with nothing due or owed on either side. For example, I've paid it all back, so now we're even-steven . This rhyming phrase is used as an intensive for even . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

"We were splitting the money even-steven. The more money I got, the more I'd have to buy that new sled I wanted."

From Literature

Asked to respond to Murkowski’s de facto endorsement, Peltola said, “I’m voting for her, so we’re even-steven.”

From Washington Post

Fangio said afterward that their performances validated his notion that “they’re even-steven” in this QB clash in which they’ve traded off good days for bad and have even been inconsistent from one series to the next.

From Seattle Times

"I’m thrilled that both of them played well. I want it to be a hard decision," said coach Vic Fangio, repeating the "even-steven" declaration he's made on the race all summer.

From Fox News

“It’s even-Steven, not much separation,” Fangio said in what has become a familiar refrain.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• equity
• harmony
• tension