steady

UK: ˈstedi | US: ˈstedi

Definition

  1. adj. firmly fixed, stable, or unwavering

  2. adj. consistent in action, purpose, or progress

  3. vt. to make or keep steady

Structure
stead <place>y <adjective suffix>stead <place>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word steady emerged in Middle English (14th century) by combining stead (a fixed position) with the adjectival suffix -y. Its core logic ties physical stability ("standing firm in place") to abstract consistency (e.g., steady progress). The verb form (16th century) extended this idea to active stabilization.

Examples

  1. She held the ladder steady while he climbed.

  2. His steady hands made him an excellent surgeon.

  3. The company reported steady growth over five years.

  4. He took a deep breath to steady his nerves.

  5. Keep the camera steady to avoid blurry photos.