steady
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.firm and not shaking or moving.
adj.firm in standing or position; not tottering, shaking, or easily displaced.
Simple“You need a steady hand to paint the fine details on the model.”
In context“The photographer used a tripod to ensure the camera remained steady during the long exposure required for the night sky.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
adj.happening in a smooth, gradual, and regular way.
adj.developing, moving, or happening in a smooth, gradual, and regular manner without sudden changes.
Simple“The company has seen a steady increase in sales over the last three years.”
In context“Despite the economic downturn, the firm maintained a steady pace of production to meet its long-term contractual obligations.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.calm and not easily upset or excited.
adj.not easily upset, excited, or disturbed; showing emotional stability and reliability.
Simple“He is a steady person who stays calm even when things go wrong.”
In context“The captain was known for his steady nerves, which allowed him to navigate the vessel through the storm without panic.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to stop something from shaking or falling.
v.to make something stable or to stop it from shaking or moving.
Simple“She reached out to steady herself against the wall when the bus stopped suddenly.”
In context“The central bank took immediate action to steady the markets after the unexpected election results caused a sharp currency drop.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
n.a regular boyfriend or girlfriend.
n.a regular romantic partner with whom one has a committed relationship.
Simple“He brought his steady to the high school dance.”
In context“In the mid-twentieth century, the act of 'going steady' was a significant social milestone for teenagers in the United States.”
UsageOften used in the phrase 'going steady' to describe a committed dating relationship.
Teacher's tipThis sense is somewhat old-fashioned in American English; younger speakers are more likely to use 'partner' or 'significant other'.
Synonyms - 06 B2 Upper Intermediate
adv.in a way that is regular and does not change.
adv.in a continuous, regular, or habitual manner.
Simple“The rain fell steady all afternoon, soaking the garden.”
In context“The engine hummed steady throughout the night, providing a reassuring background noise for the crew on watch.”
Synonyms
Usage steady stream · steady decline · incorporation steady