toe: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral
Quick answer
What does “toe” mean?
One of the five separate parts at the end of the human foot.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
One of the five separate parts at the end of the human foot.
The part of a shoe, sock, or other item that covers the toes; the front part of something; a projecting part or piece; to touch, reach, or kick with the toes.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minor spelling differences in derived terms (e.g., 'toehold' vs. 'toe-hold'). The verb 'to toe the line' is more common in UK political discourse, while US usage sees more sports-related verb applications.
Connotations
In UK English, 'toe' in phrases like 'toe the line' carries a stronger connotation of obedience to party or authority. In US English, sports metaphors (e.g., 'toe the rubber' in baseball) are more prevalent.
Frequency
The noun is equally frequent. The verb form is slightly more common in US English due to sports commentary.
Grammar
How to Use “toe” in a Sentence
toe the linetoe in/out (of a vehicle's wheels)toe something (e.g., a ball)toe into somethingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “toe” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The MP was warned to toe the party line.
- He toed the football gently back to the keeper.
American English
- The pitcher toed the rubber before his windup.
- You need to toe in the front wheels slightly.
adjective
British English
- She bought some new toe post sandals.
- The toe end of the sock was worn through.
American English
- He suffered a toe injury during practice.
- Check the toe box for enough room.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used metaphorically: 'The new manager made everyone toe the line.'
Academic
Anatomical and biomechanical descriptions of foot structure and gait.
Everyday
Discussing injuries, footwear, or pedicures.
Technical
Engineering (e.g., toe-in alignment of wheels), climbing (toehold), ballet (pointe work).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “toe”
- Using 'finger' instead of 'toe'.
- Misspelling as 'tow'.
- Incorrect preposition in idioms: 'toe on the line' instead of 'toe the line'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, many animals have toes, and the word is used for the digits of certain animals (e.g., birds, frogs). It's also used for the analogous parts on tools, shoes, and geographical features.
'Toe' refers specifically to the digits of the foot. 'Finger' refers to the digits of the hand (though in anatomy, all are 'digits'). Context is key to avoid confusion.
Yes. It primarily means to touch, push, or align with the toes (e.g., 'toe a ball', 'toe the line'). It's also used in technical contexts like wheel alignment ('toe-in').
It likely originates from sports or the military, where participants would line up with their toes exactly touching a starting line, indicating readiness and obedience to the rules.
One of the five separate parts at the end of the human foot.
Toe is usually neutral in register.
Toe: in British English it is pronounced /təʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /toʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “toe the line”
- “on your toes”
- “dip a toe in the water”
- “step on someone's toes”
- “from head to toe”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'TOE' as the 'Tip Of the Extremity' of your foot.
Conceptual Metaphor
FRONT IS A TOE (e.g., the toe of the boot, the toe of the continent); OBEDIENCE/CONFORMITY IS KEEPING YOUR TOES ON THE LINE.
Practice
Quiz
What does the idiom 'step on someone's toes' mean?