Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for stepping-stone.
Definitions

stepping-stone

NOUN
instrumentation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apparatus instrument
STRONG
agency agent aid auspices avenue channel course dodge equipment expedient factor fashion gimmick instrumentality intermediary machinery manner measure mechanism medium ministry mode organ organization paraphernalia path power process road route step system tactic technique trick vehicle
WEAK
modus operandi ways and means
Antonyms
STRONG
blockage disorganization ignorance
NOUN
means
Synonyms
STRONGEST
aid channel equipment factor instrument measure mechanism medium mode power process route step system tactic technique vehicle
STRONG
agency agent apparatus auspices avenue course dodge expedient fashion gimmick instrumentality instrumentation intermediary machinery manner ministry organ organization paraphernalia path road trick
WEAK
modus operandi ways and means
Antonyms
STRONGEST
end
WEAK
paucity poorness shame

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Hours later, Pakistan's government said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had met Vance, expressing hope the talks would serve as "a stepping stone toward durable peace in the region".

From Barron's • Apr. 11, 2026

And this is another stepping stone, to get to finally act on screen together.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

This is a stepping stone to the building of a multi-sided marketplace, the note says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

Without saying their exact roles, and with arms crossed, one says the course is considered a fast-track stepping stone for a promotion from the office to field work.

From BBC • Jan. 4, 2026

But that was itself a mere stepping stone to greater things.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik