afoot
UK: əˈfʊt | US: əˈfʊt
adv. in progress; happening or being planned
adj. (archaic) on foot; walking
The word "afoot" combines the Old English prefix "a-" (meaning "on" or "in," derived from Proto-Germanic *ana) with "foot," reflecting the literal sense of being "on foot." Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe events "in motion" or "in progress," retaining its connection to movement. The prefix "a-" is common in archaic directional terms (e.g., "aboard," "aside"), while "foot" anchors the word’s concrete and abstract meanings.
Rumors of a merger were afoot in the company.
The scouts set out afoot to explore the valley.
Changes to the policy are afoot, though details remain unclear.
(Archaic) They traveled afoot for days to reach the village.
A sense of excitement was afoot as the festival began.