stride (strīd)

v., strode (strōd), strid·den (strĭd'n), strid·ing, strides.

v.intr.

1. To walk with long steps, especially in a hasty or vigorous way.
2. To take a single long step, as in passing over an obstruction.
3. To stand or sit astride; straddle.

v.tr.

1. To walk with long steps on, along, or over: striding the stage.
2. To step over or across: stride a brook.
3. To be astride of; straddle.

n.

1. The act of striding.
2. 1. A single long step.
   2. The distance traveled in such a step.
3. 1. A single coordinated movement of the four legs of a horse or other animal, completed when the legs return to their initial relative position.
   2. The distance traveled in such a movement.
4. A step of progress; an advance. Often used in the plural: making great strides in their studies.

idioms:

hit (one's) stride

1. To achieve a steady, effective pace.
2. To attain a maximum level of competence.

take in stride

1. To cope with calmly, without interrupting one's normal routine: taking their newfound wealth in stride.

[Middle English striden, from Old English strīdan.]

strider strid'er n.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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