footprint
UK: ˈfʊtprɪnt | US: ˈfʊtprɪnt
n. the impression left by a foot or shoe on a surface
n. a measurable impact or effect left by an activity or process
n. (computing) the amount of memory or disk space used by a program
The word "footprint" combines "foot" (from Old English fōt, meaning the lower limb used for walking) and "print" (from Old French preinte, meaning a pressed mark). The term originally referred to the literal mark left by a foot, later metaphorically extended to denote traces of human activity (e.g., carbon footprint) and technical usage in computing. The morphemes retain their original spelling and logical connection to the word’s core meaning.
The detective examined the muddy footprint near the window.
Reducing your carbon footprint helps combat climate change.
The software update decreased the program’s memory footprint.
Ancient footprints preserved in volcanic ash reveal early human migration.
The hiker’s footprints disappeared as the tide rose.