Shoe

/ʃuː/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A covering for the foot, typically made of leather, canvas, or plastic, with a sturdy sole.
She bought a new pair of shoes for the upcoming event.
A protective covering for a horse's hoof.
The farrier put a new shoe on the horse's left front hoof.
A type of athletic equipment, often referred to in the plural form, used specifically for sports.
He wore track shoes to improve his grip on the running surface.
A position or role in a specific context.
She stepped into her father's shoes when he retired from the company.
A situation or condition that someone is in.
I wouldn't want to be in your shoes right now with all that stress.
verb
To put shoes on (oneself or someone else).
Make sure to shoe the children before they go outside.

Etymology

From Old English 'sceoe', related to Old High German 'scuoa'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to put oneself in someone's shoes
To imagine what it would be like to be in someone else's situation.
step into someone’s shoes
To take over someone's role or responsibilities.
shoe on the other foot
The situation is reversed; now the other person has the same experience.

Related Words

sandal
A type of footwear consisting of a sole held to the foot by straps.
boot
A type of footwear that covers the ankle and may extend up the leg.
sneaker
A type of athletic shoe that is designed for walking or running.

Slang Meanings

Kicks
He's got some fresh kicks on today.
Treds
Check out my new treds, they're awesome!