tread

Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: treadspast: trodpp: troddening: treadingcomp: nullsup: null

This word carries a heavy sense of pressure and physical contact. It often implies a deliberate or cautious movement, as in walking on a fragile surface or navigating a social minefield. There is an inherent feeling of weight being applied to a surface, whether literally or figuratively.

Countable when referring to the physical surface of a stair or the grooves on a tire. Uncountable when referring to the general act or manner of walking.

Meanings

Transitive Verb

[someone][something]

To step or walk on something, often crushing it.

"He tread carefully on the dry leaves."

Intransitive Verb

[doing]

To walk or step in a specific manner.

"She tread softly across the room."

Noun

[null]

The part of a tire or shoe that touches the ground.

"The tires have almost no tread left."

Noun

[null]

The horizontal part of a step in a staircase.

"The carpenter sanded the wooden tread."

Last Updated: May 31, 2026•Report an Error

tread

Meanings

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