ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ verb
Etymology: side (III) + step
intransitive verb
1. : to take a side step
2. : to avoid meeting an issue, taking a stand, or making a decision
men who know how to dodge, trim, and sidestep — C.M.Fassett
transitive verb
1. : to avoid (as a blow) especially by moving to one side
2. : to avoid as if by physical movement : evade
sidestep issues
sidestep responsibility
sidestep a question
Synonyms: see dodge