paso
/หpa.so/
Definition
A step โ one movement of the foot when walking, or a stage in a process.
Example
El primer paso es el mรกs difรญcil de todos.
Show translation
The first step is the hardest one of all.
Etymology
From Latin *passus* ("a stretch of the leg, a pace"), derived from *pandere* ("to stretch out"). The same root gave English "pace" and "pass," and underpins Spanish compounds like *pasillo* (hallway) and *pasaporte* (passport โ literally "cross the port/gate").
Cultural note
*Paso* carries enormous cultural weight in Spanish. In Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions across Spain, the ornate floats carried through the streets are called *pasos*. The phrase *a paso a paso* ("step by step") is a beloved everyday idiom for steady progress, and *dar un paso adelante* ("to take a step forward") is a common way to describe brave or decisive action.