lockstep
noun
lock·step
ˈläk-ˌstep 
often attributive
1
: a mode of marching in step by a body of persons going one after another as closely as possible
2
: a standard method or procedure that is mindlessly adhered to or that minimizes individuality
see also in lockstep
Examples of lockstep in a Sentence
followed the lockstep that had been in his family for generations: prep school, Ivy League university, job on Wall Street
Recent Examples on the Web
Its new reporting program is inspired by the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, is being implemented so the district can be in lockstep with other sizeable school districts throughout the state also installing these reporting systems.
—
Monique John, CBS News, 5 Feb. 2026
Last week, more than 10,000 people signed a petition asking the City Council to pass a resolution that would conflict with state law, prompting council members to commit to considering next steps to ensure the city is not in lockstep with federal immigration agents.
—Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 3 Feb. 2026
Inside, the rooms shift in mood rather than marching in lockstep.
—Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 28 Jan. 2026
In 2024, in lockstep with the United States and President Joe Biden, Canada had imposed a 100% tariff on cars from China, essentially an embargo.
—Ken Roberts, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lockstep
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Monique John, CBS News, 5 Feb. 2026
Last week, more than 10,000 people signed a petition asking the City Council to pass a resolution that would conflict with state law, prompting council members to commit to considering next steps to ensure the city is not in lockstep with federal immigration agents.
—Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 3 Feb. 2026
Inside, the rooms shift in mood rather than marching in lockstep.
—Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 28 Jan. 2026
In 2024, in lockstep with the United States and President Joe Biden, Canada had imposed a 100% tariff on cars from China, essentially an embargo.
—Ken Roberts, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lockstep
Cite this Entry
“Lockstep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lockstep. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
lockstep
noun
lock·step
-ˌstep
: a way of marching in step in which the marchers are very close one behind the other
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