footpad

[ foot-pad ]

noun

1. a highwayman or robber who goes on foot.

verb (used without object)

, foot·pad·ded, foot·pad·ding.

1. to proceed stealthily on foot.

footpad

/ ˈfʊtˌpæd /

noun

1. archaic.
   a robber or highwayman, on foot rather than horseback

Word History and Origins

Origin of footpad¹

First recorded in 1675–85; foot + pad ²

Example Sentences

The elephant was reported to be underweight, have rough skin and abscesses on both hips, thinning footpads, and a stiff left foreleg, making it difficult for the animal to walk and stand.

From Seattle Times

The hoverboard also has a black platform with “Jetson” printed on the side of its body and on the product’s footpads.

From New York Times

Thick snow blankets the ground - but the big cat's dense coat and furry footpads keep it warm.

From BBC

The only way to multiply the pathogen is to inject it into armadillos or into the footpads of mice.

From Science Magazine

She also began to develop lesions on her footpads and nails.

From Washington Post