doorstep
UK: ˈdɔːstep | US: ˈdɔːrstep
n. 1. The step or area immediately outside an entrance door.
n. 2. (Figuratively) A threshold or point of entry to an opportunity or situation.
The word "doorstep" is a straightforward compound of "door" (from Old English duru, meaning an entrance barrier) and "step" (from Old English stæpe, meaning a footrest or movement of the foot). It emerged in Middle English to literally describe the step leading to a door, later gaining metaphorical use to signify a transitional point (e.g., "on the doorstep of success"). The morphemes retain their original meanings, making the word highly transparent.
The delivery package was left on the doorstep.
She sat on the doorstep, waiting for her friend to arrive.
The journalist camped on the celebrity’s doorstep for an interview.
The new policy places us on the doorstep of major change.
He wiped his muddy boots on the doorstep before entering.