even-footed
|e-ven-foot-ed|
/ˌiːvənˈfʊtɪd/
balanced / equal footing
Etymology
'even-footed' originates from Old English elements, specifically the words 'efen' and 'fōt', where 'efen' meant 'level, equal' and 'fōt' meant 'foot'.
'even-footed' changed from Middle English compounds combining 'even' (from Old English 'efen') and 'footed' (from Old English 'fōt' + adjectival suffix '-ed'), and eventually became the modern English compound 'even-footed'.
Initially, it meant 'having feet placed evenly; physically steady', but over time it also evolved to mean 'balanced or equal in status; on equal terms'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having a steady, balanced placement of the feet; sure-footed or physically stable.
The mule was even-footed on the rocky trail and never slipped.
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Adjective 2
being on equal terms; not at an advantage or disadvantage relative to others; fair or impartial in position.
The new rules left all teams even-footed going into the playoffs.
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Last updated: 2025/12/08 17:06