instep
UK[ˈɪnstep]US[ˈɪnstep]
n
the raised middle part of the human foot between the toes and the ankle.
n
the part of a shoe, sock, or boot that covers this part of the foot.
Etymology
the word 'instep' originated in middle english as a compound of the preposition 'in' and the noun 'step'. the literal sense was 'the part where one steps in', referring to the arch of the foot where it bends during the action of stepping. this compound formation is a classic example of english's germanic heritage, creating a new, specific anatomical term from two common, existing words. over time, the meaning solidified to refer specifically to the arched top surface of the foot between the toes and the ankle, and by extension, to the part of footwear that covers this area.
Analysis
this word is a simplex noun of middle english origin, formed from the combination of the preposition 'in' and the noun 'step'. it is not productively segmentable into independent morphemes in modern english.
Examples
he felt a sharp pain in his instep after running on the uneven path.
the new hiking boots have excellent arch support but are tight across the instep.
the dancer pointed her toe, creating a perfect line from her knee to her instep.