tread - Definition & Meaning | VisualLang Dictionary

tread

Third Person

treads

Present Participle

treading

Past Tense

trod

Past Participle

trodden

to step on or crush something with the feet, often implying a forceful or heavy action

transitive

The muddy boots tread on the freshly planted flowers, leaving imprints in the garden.
The marching soldiers tread on the soft soil, leaving a pattern of footprints on the training ground.
To extinguish the embers, he had to tread on the campfire carefully with his boots.
The kids were warned not to tread on the fragile artwork displayed on the classroom floor.
In the rush to board the train, passengers often inadvertently tread on each other's belongings.

Synonyms:

to move along a path, surface, or area by taking steps

The hikers tread along the mountain trail, enjoying the breathtaking views.
As the procession began, the participants tread slowly down the aisle of the church.
To explore the historical city, tourists chose to tread through the cobblestone streets.
In the quiet forest, the deer tread softly through the fallen leaves.
The marathon runners were determined to tread across the entire length of the racecourse.

Synonyms:

to suppress or control with force, as if trampling down opposition or resistance

transitive

The authoritarian regime sought to tread any dissent, silencing opposing voices.
In times of crisis, the government may attempt to tread resistance by implementing strict measures.
The powerful corporation aimed to tread any form of competition by absorbing smaller companies.
The authorities decided to tread the protests by deploying a significant police presence.
To maintain control, the dictator ruthlessly tread any signs of rebellion.

(of a male bird) to engage in the mating process

transitive

During the breeding season, the male peacock treads the female to fertilize her eggs.
The male swan treads the female gracefully, their synchronized movements a part of their mating ritual.
The male pheasant treads the female as part of the courtship display.
The male rooster treads the hen to fertilize her eggs, ensuring the continuation of their species.