Tiptoed: meaning, definitions and examples
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tiptoed
[ ˈtɪp.toʊd ]
moving quietly
Tiptoed is the past tense of the verb tiptoe, which means to walk quietly and cautiously on the toes to avoid making noise. This action often implies a sense of stealth or secrecy, as one might tiptoe in order to not disturb someone or something. It is commonly used in contexts where silence is crucial, such as sneaking around a sleeping person or entering a room quietly. Tiptoeing can convey a playful or mischievous attitude when done in a light-hearted context.
Synonyms
creep, skulk, sneak, stealthily walk.
Examples of usage
- She tiptoed around the sleeping baby.
- He tiptoed to the door to avoid waking anyone.
- The cat tiptoed across the floor silently.
- They tiptoed into the party to surprise their friend.
Translations
Translations of the word "tiptoed" in other languages:
🇵🇹 andar na ponta dos pés
🇮🇳 आंगन में चलना
🇩🇪 auf den Zehenspitzen gehen
🇮🇩 berjalan di atas jari kaki
🇺🇦 ходити на пальцях
🇵🇱 iść na palcach
🇯🇵 つま先で歩く
🇫🇷 marcher sur la pointe des pieds
🇪🇸 caminar de puntillas
🇹🇷 parmak uçlarında yürümek
🇰🇷 발끝으로 걷다
🇸🇦 المشي على أصابع القدمين
🇨🇿 chodit po špičkách
🇸🇰 chodiť po špičkách
🇨🇳 踩着脚尖走
🇸🇮 hoditi na prstih
🇮🇸 ganga á tá
🇰🇿 саусақтарымен жүру
🇬🇪 გადადგმული ნაბიჯი
🇦🇿 barmaqların ucu ilə getmək
🇲🇽 caminar de puntillas
Etymology
The word 'tiptoe' originates from the early 17th century, with its earliest documented use dating back to 1626. It is derived from the combination of 'tip', meaning the extremity or point of something, and 'toe', referring to the digits of the foot. The notion of walking on one's toes with an emphasis on the tips suggests a modified stance that allows for greater discretion and subtlety in movement. Over time, 'tiptoe' evolved in both usage and form, encompassing various expressions of quiet, cautious movement. Its usage has been prevalent in literature and conversation, often illustrating themes of stealth or playfulness. The linguistic roots tie it closely to physicality, emphasizing a delicate and careful approach to walking.