steady
steady
/ˈstedi/
1 developing, growing, etc. gradually and in an even and regular way
We've had five years of steady economic growth.
The last decade has seen a steady decline in the number of birds nesting here.
There has been a gradual but steady increase in prices.
We are making slow but steady progress.
The castle receives a steady stream of visitors.
There seemed to be a steady flow of customers all day.
Collocations
verbs
adverb
2 not changing and not interrupted
His breathing was steady.
a steady job/income
She drove at a steady 50 mph.
They set off at a steady pace.
a steady boyfriend/girlfriend (= with whom you have a serious relationship or one that has lasted a long time)
to have a steady relationship
3 fixed in a place or position, supported or balanced; controlled and not shaking or likely to fall down
He held the boat steady as she got in.
I met his steady gaze.
Such fine work requires a good eye and a steady hand.
She’s not very steady on her feet these days.
Collocations
verbs
adverb
4 (of a person) sensible; who can be relied on
Idioms
steady 2
/ˈstedi/
1 transitive, intransitive steady (yourself/somebody/something) to stop yourself/somebody/something from moving, shaking or falling; to stop moving, shaking or falling She steadied herself against the wall.
The lift rocked slightly, steadied, and the doors opened.
Her heartbeat steadied.
steady against something The pound steadied against the dollar.
3 transitive steady somebody/something to make somebody/something calm He took a few deep breaths to steady his nerves.
steady 3
/ˈstedi/
in a way that is steady and does not change or shake
In trading today the dollar held steady against the yen.
Idioms
Word Origin
Middle English (in the sense ‘unwavering, without deviation’): from stead + -y. The verb dates from the mid 16th cent.