stride

A stride is a long, confident step. It can also mean a strong, purposeful way of walking. Sometimes it simply refers to the length of a step when walking or running. If someone makes great strides in their career, it means they are making strong progress. You might see a lion take a powerful step across the savanna, or a runner hit their stride during a race.

The word suggests movement with purpose. A "giant stride" is a big step forward, and "in full stride" gives the sense of smooth, powerful motion. It is not just about walking, but about moving with direction, energy, and confidence.

To stride means to walk with long, decisive steps, suggesting confidence, purpose, or energy. Imagine a general inspecting troops—they wouldn't shuffle along, but rather stride purposefully across the parade ground. "She strode into the room" paints a picture of someone entering with authority and determination.

But "stride" isn't limited to physical movement. It can also refer to the length of one step when walking or running—"a long stride helps you cover more ground." More figuratively, it describes significant progress made in something. "The company has made great strides in developing new technology" means they've achieved substantial advancements.

Historically, "stride" comes from Old English words meaning to walk boldly or stretch out. This sense of boldness and forward momentum remains central to the word today. You might hear it used in phrases like "in full stride," meaning operating at peak efficiency, or "hit your stride," meaning to find a rhythm and perform well.

So whether you're describing someone's confident walk, measuring the length of their steps, or celebrating their achievements—"stride" embodies movement, progress, and purposeful action.