跖
metatarsus; sole; tread
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesnoun
instep; metatarsus (the part of the foot near the toes)
Primarily used in modern anatomical and medical contexts, often in the compound 跖骨 (metatarsal bone).
The X-ray shows that his second metatarsal bone is fractured.
Forefoot (metatarsal) pain is usually related to wearing high heels.
noun
sole of the foot
literaryLiterary and classical usage. Commonly appears in biological terms like 跖行 (plantigrade, walking on the soles).
Humans are plantigrade animals, walking with the entire sole of the foot touching the ground.
Bear paws were considered precious ingredients in ancient times.
verb
to tread; to trample; to step on
archaicArchaic and literary usage. Rare in modern speech outside of classical references.
Before the morning dew had dried, he was already treading upon the muddy path.
Treading on solid ground, he advanced cautiously at every step.