The word "step" refers to the action of moving by lifting one foot and putting it down in a different position, which is a fundamental part of walking or running. It can also refer to a particular stage or phase in a process or sequence of actions. For example, "taking a step forward" can mean making progress in a task or goal.
The word "step" originates from the Old English "stæpe," which means a footstep or pace. It has roots in Proto-Germanic "*stapō" and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Dutch "stap" and German "Schritt," both meaning step or pace.