Tread

/trɛd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the manner in which one walks.

His tread was heavy as he approached the door.

the part of a wheel or shoe that touches the ground.

The tire tread was worn down to the canvas.

a pattern designed on the surface of a shoe or tire to provide grip.

The new sneakers have a superior tread for better traction.

verb

to walk or step on something.

Be careful where you tread in the dark.

to press down or crush something by walking on it.

He accidentally tread on the flowers in the garden.

to move in a specified way or direction.

She treads lightly on the icy surface.

to follow a particular path or course.

The explorer decided to tread where few had gone before.

Middle English tredde, from Old English trēdan; akin to Old Norse drāða to tread.

tread lightly

to be cautious in one's actions or words.

tread the boards

to perform on stage (theater).

tread water

to stay afloat in water by moving one's legs and arms.

treader

one who treads.

treadmill

a device for exercise that allows walking or running in place.

to handle or deal with a situation

He's really treading on thin ice with that comment.

to move carefully or cautiously

You better tread carefully around her; she's in a bad mood.