WordGarden.iostride
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /strˈaɪd/
US
- /ˈstraɪd/
Meanings
Verb
to walk with long, confident steps
Noun
a long step in walking or running
someone's characteristic way of walking
the interval between repeated positions in data or processing, especially in computing
Beyond the definition
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.
Examples
- 1
Stage movement
She strode across the stage and thanked the crowd.
- 2
Confident entrance
He strode into the office as if he already owned the place.
- 3
Walking pace
We had to walk faster to keep up with her stride.
- 4
Business progress
The team has made real strides in customer service this year.
- Patternmake strides in + area
make good progress in that area
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Medical progress
Scientists are making strides toward a cheaper vaccine.
- Patternmake strides toward + goal
make progress toward it
- 6
Calm reaction
She took the sudden schedule change in stride and kept working.
- Patterntake X in stride
stay calm and deal with X easily
- 7
Presentation flow
He answered the question without breaking stride and continued his presentation.
- Phrasewithout breaking stride
without pausing or losing confidence
See also
Forms and spellings
5 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- stridenounverb
Forms
- stridespluralnounverb
- strodepast tenseverbnoun
- striding-ing formverbnoun
- striddenpast participleverbnoun