# footwork

/ˈfʊtˌwɝk/ (US) · /fˈʊtwɜːk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/footwork
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the way you move your feet when you are doing an activity like dancing or sports. Good footwork helps you stay balanced and move quickly.

For teachers: the manner in which a person moves or uses their feet in activities such as sports, dance, or combat. Often used metaphorically to describe skillful maneuvering in social or political situations.

## Examples

- The boxer has excellent footwork and moves around the ring easily.
- The coach spent the entire practice session focusing on footwork to improve the players' agility on the court.
- While the dancer's upper body remained perfectly still, her intricate footwork demonstrated a level of technical mastery that few in the audience had ever witnessed.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an uncountable noun to describe a skill or technique.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.