early 13c., "footprint," from foot (n.) + step (n.). Meaning "a tread or fall of the foot" is first attested 1530s. Figurative expression to follow in (someone's) footsteps is from 1540s.
he heard footsteps on the porch
foot-rail
foot-rest
footsie
foot-soldier
foot-sore
footstep
footstool
fop
foppery
foppish
for-