tiptoe
|tip-toe|
B1
🇺🇸
/ˈtɪpˌtoʊ/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɪp.təʊ/
walking quietly
Etymology
Etymology Information
'tiptoe' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'tipto,' where 'tip' meant 'end' and 'toe' referred to the digit of the foot.
Historical Evolution
'tipto' transformed into the modern English word 'tiptoe' through gradual phonetic changes.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to walk on the tips of one's toes,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of walking on the tips of one's toes.
She moved across the room on tiptoe to avoid waking the baby.
Synonyms
Verb 1
to walk quietly and carefully on the tips of one's toes.
He tiptoed into the room to surprise her.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45