1
: to stand astride
2
: to move with or as if with long steps
strode across the room
3
: to take a very long step
2
: to step over
3
: to move over or along with or as if with long measured steps
striding the boardwalk
1
a
: a cycle of locomotor movements (as of a horse) completed when the feet regain the initial relative positions
also
: the distance traversed in a stride
b
: the most effective natural pace : maximum competence or capability
—often used in the phrase hit one's stride
2
: a long step
3
: an act of striding
4
: a stage of progress : advance
made great strides toward their goal
5
: a manner of striding
6
see also:
Cite this Entry
“Stride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stride. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.
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