tread Definition
- 1to step or walk on something
- 2to crush something with your feet as you walk
- 3to be careful about what you say or do in order to avoid upsetting or offending someone
Using tread: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tread" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He carefully trod on the icy pavement.
Example
The grapes were being trodden by foot to make wine.
Example
She had to tread carefully around the sensitive topic.
Example
The protesters were treading on the flag as a sign of disrespect.
Example
He treaded water for hours before being rescued.
tread Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with tread
to offend or upset someone by interfering in something that is their responsibility
Example
I didn't mean to tread on your toes by taking over the project.
Example
He's been treading the boards for years and has become quite famous.
Example
She was tired from treading water for so long.
Origins of tread
from Old English 'tredan', meaning 'to tread, step on'
Summary: tread in Brief
The verb 'tread' [tred] means to step or walk on something, to crush something with your feet, or to be careful about what you say or do. It can be used in phrases like 'tread on someone's toes,' meaning to interfere with someone's responsibility, or 'tread the boards,' meaning to perform on stage as an actor. 'Tread' can also mean to stay afloat in water by moving your legs and arms without going anywhere, as in 'She was tired from treading water for so long.'
