step-in

[ step-in ]

adjective

1. (of garments, shoes, etc.) put on by being stepped into.

noun

1. step-ins, panties, especially bias-cut panties with wide legs worn by women in the 1920s and 1930s.
2. any step-in garment.

step in

verb

1. informal.
   intr, adverb to intervene or involve oneself, esp dramatically or at a senior level

adjective

1. prenominal (of garments, etc) put on by being stepped into; without fastenings
2. (of a ski binding) engaging automatically when the boot is positioned on the ski

noun

1. often plural a step-in garment, esp underwear

Word History and Origins

Origin of step-in¹

First recorded in 1920–25; adj., noun use of verb phrase step in

Idioms and Phrases

Enter into an activity or situation; also, intervene. For example, The business was doing poorly until Stan stepped in , or They are going to make a mess of the mailing unless someone steps in and shows them what to do . [Late 1400s] Also see step into .

Example Sentences

Shyft said it plans to start pilot production this summer of its first Blue Arc vehicle, a step-in van, in Charlotte, Michigan, not far from its Novi headquarters.

From Reuters

This library of the pilot's unique characteristics means the on-board AI will be able to step-in and assist if the sensors indicate they may need help.

From BBC

It has a flat floor, low step-in height, and B-pillarless design for easy entry and exit, as well as sliding doors, reclining seats, and plenty of headroom.

From The Verge

"It seemed like everything they shot went in, and they shot from deep. We wanted to make them bounce it and we let them get too many step-in shots."

From Fox News

The Brexit transition period ends on Dec. 31, and there is the possibility of chaos at ports, with military aircraft on standby to step-in.

From Reuters